Abstract
Background: The news of cancer often entails psychological and financial constraints on the patient and their caregivers. In India, the health systems are under tremendous load, with cancer services facing geographical, behavioural, economic and infrastructure challenges. In the backdrop of this, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) master to walk along with those facing a long and tumulus journey of cancer treatment by facilitating cancer care services. This paper examines the narratives of NGOs on their role and modus operandi in bringing ease of cancer care access. Method: By purposive sampling, four NGOs and six oncologists were interviewed in two cancer institutes in Northeast India, namely (i) Tomo Riba Institute of Health & Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) in Arunachal Pradesh and (ii) Dr B. Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI) in Assam. A semi-structured interview schedule was used for the study, with data coded and transcribed verbatim on emerging themes. Requisite ethical clearances were received from the respective institutes. Results: Collaboration with the NGOs and cancer institutes has opened an array of ease of access for cancer patients. Such partnerships become indispensable, especially in the study area where socio-cultural diversity, infrastructural or psycho-social barriers could influence the timely treatment of cancer patients.
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