Cancer support services--are they appropriate and accessible for Indigenous cancer patients in Queensland, Australia?

摘要: Introduction In Queensland, Australia, the incidence of cancer (all cancers combined) is 21% lower for Indigenous people compared with non-Indigenous but mortality 36% higher. Support services play an important role in helping patients through their journey. are likely to face greater unmet supportive care needs and more barriers accessing support. Other include higher proportion who live remotely regional areas, a known difficulty access health services. This study describes availability support Queensland relevant location. Methods Using set criteria 121 were selected from pre-existing database (n = 344) These invited complete online questionnaire. ArcGIS (http://www.esri.com/software/arcgis/index.html) was used map services' location (using postcode) against population by local government area. Services classified as 'Indigenous' or 'Indigenous friendly' service using criteria. Results Eighty-three (73.6%) completed Mapping revealed located where there relatively low percentages whole population. No 'Indigenous-specific' identified; however, 11 (13%) classed 'Indigenous-friendly'. The primary offered these 'information'. Fewer referrals received liaison officers other professionals. Only 8.6% reported frequently having contact organisation; 44.6% that staff participated cultural training. also identified which may exist clientele, including no costs involved service, unable address issues due restricted funding capacity. Conclusion Further research into best models providing culturally appropriate essential ensure well supported throughout Emphasis should be placed on high percentage resides maintained rural remote settings. efforts relationships organisations mainstream encouraging referral officers.