Factors influencing care for patients with gynecologic malignancies from culturally and linguistically diverse...

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations affected by cancer experience challenges within healthcare systems leading to inequities and disparities in care. This study aimed to describe factors that affect care for gynecologic cancer patients from CALD backgrounds by gathering perspectives from patients, interpreters, and cancer care professionals.

This questionnaire-based study was conducted in the Gynecologic Oncology Clinics at Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, Canada. Study-specific questionnaires were administered to CALD patients, professional interpreters, and cancer care professionals with domains including demographics, clinic experiences, and perceived barriers and facilitators to care. Descriptive statistics summarized survey results and content analysis of free-text answers was performed.

Between May 2022 and December 2023, 23 patients, 10 interpreters, and 11 cancer care professionals completed surveys. Twenty (87%) patients reported English proficiency as "poor" or "very poor," but most were confident in participating in treatment decision-making (n = 20, 87%). Most agreed (n = 15, 65%) that interpretive services were beneficial however 12 (52%) preferred family members or bilingual staff to interpret. All interpreters were comfortable facilitating oncology discussions, but eight (80%) had previously been asked by family members to withhold information about cancer diagnosis or prognosis. Ten (91%) cancer care professionals reported interpreters improved care delivery for CALD patients.

While language interpretation is crucial to effective cancer care delivery for CALD patients, factors including family support and patient preferences may impact consultation dynamics and patient experiences. These factors need to be considered upon implementing future interventions to optimize care.