Experiences of People with Cancer from Rural and Remote Areas of Western Australia Using Supported Accommodation in Perth While Undergoing Treatment.

Andrette Chua,Evelyn Nguyen,Li Lin Puah,Sharon Keesing,Justin Soong

doi:10.3390/curroncol29020101

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore the lived experiences of people diagnosed with cancer from rural and remote areas of Western Australia, who utilise supported accommodation services whilst undergoing treatment in the capital city (Perth). Methods A qualitative phenomenological approach was used in this study. Ten participants were recruited using purposive sampling, who were aged between 35–65 years, were diagnosed with cancer within the previous three months and used accommodation services within the past 12 months. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with a duration of approximately 45–60 min via Zoom, FaceTime or phone call. Interview data was transcribed, thematically analysed and coded into relevant themes. Results: Three overarching themes were derived from the interviews–“It’s harder to have cancer when you have to relocate for treatment,” “The paradoxical experience of staying at the accommodation,” and “Feeling grateful for the support offered’. Conclusions: People diagnosed with cancer who have to relocate during treatment require emotional, logistical, and social supports. Cancer accommodation services are essential in enabling individuals to continue engaging in meaningful occupations and maintain their quality of life. Our study highlights the need for cancer accommodation services to consider the complex needs of individuals completing treatment for cancer in locations away from their usual homes.

Highlights

Cancer is a major cause of illness and death across all ages and the greatest contributor to the fatal burden of disease in Australia [1]
The aim of this study is to explore the lived experiences of people diagnosed with cancer from rural and remote areas of Western Australia (WA) who utilise Council Western Australia (CCWA)
Interviews revealed the experiences of people with cancer who lived in CCWA accommodation while undergoing treatment in Perth, resulting in the three overarching themes and eight subthemes identified below

Summary

Introduction

Cancer is a major cause of illness and death across all ages and the greatest contributor to the fatal burden of disease in Australia [1]. In Western Australia (WA), 60,009 people were diagnosed between 2010–2014 and 20,510 deaths from cancer were registered between. People with cancer often experience disruption to their everyday lives due to a range of financial, physical, and psychosocial limitations [3]. These concerns are often exacerbated for those living in rural and remote areas who are required to relocate in order to receive treatment [4]. 30% of the Australian population live in rural and remote areas, increasing the risk of experiencing poorer health outcomes and lower quality of life, especially with a diagnosis of cancer [5,6]. Despite the federal government establishing and funding $694 million to the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) initiative, significant inequalities remain regarding access to specialist oncology services in rural and remote areas in Australia, areas that are not in-receipt of RCC funding [7]

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Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion