The Experiences of Young People Living With Cancer in Regional and Remote Australia: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT There is limited qualitative research specifically exploring the experiences of young people living with cancer in nonmetropolitan Australia. This article reports on an in-depth qualitative study exploring young people’s experiences of diagnosis, treatment, and postcancer care and support, focusing on the impact of living in regional and remote Queensland, Australia. Thematically coded data from in-depth interviews were managed using NVivo 12 qualitative software. Connections with place, knowledge, people, support, lifestyle, and peers were key themes. Travelling for treatment interrupted these connections, with participants desiring treatment closer to home. Preventive social work in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas that supports maintaining connections for young patients from regional and remote areas is recommended. Further research, including the impact on young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with cancer and on the role of social workers, will inform improvements in social work practice. IMPLICATIONS Recognising the importance of connections for young people living with cancer from regional and remote areas can inform social work psychosocial assessments in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan settings, assisting social workers to respond appropriately to information young people share and supporting these valued connections. Enhancing preventive social work care with young people living with cancer from regional and remote areas will involve direct, regular communication at diagnosis and during and after cancer treatment using appropriate age-specific interventions.