Barriers to Cancer Treatment Adherence Among Older Latinos

Posted by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging on June 11, 2018

PCA reports on cancer risks facing older Latinos in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Research Department recently partnered with Abby Schwartz, a researcher at East Carolina University, to conduct a study examining the barriers to cancer treatment faced by older Latinos in Philadelphia.

The study also sought suggestions on ways that social service providers can work with these older adults, their families, and health care practitioners to reduce these barriers and improve the overall health and well-being of older cancer patients.

The project consisted of four focus groups, including older Latino cancer patients at the Mann Older Adult Center; nurses from Pennsylvania Hospital; social workers/care managers from PCA; and staff from Asociación Puertorriqueños en Marcha (APM), a community development corporation serving the Latino community in North Philadelphia that provides neighborhood-based economic development and social services. The overarching themes that emerged from this research included difficulties with transportation to appointments; language barriers patients experience with medical and other staff; and challenges in providing care resulting from caregivers who struggle to provide care while simultaneously juggling work, school, and the raising of small children.

To view the report, go here.

http://www.pcacares.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Philly-Short-Report-Final.pdf