Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://dx.doi.org/10.25673/116466
Title: Understanding referral of patients with cancer in rural Ethiopia : a qualitative study
Author(s): Trabitzsch, Josephin
Marquardt, Morena
Negash, Sarah
Belay, Winini
Abebe, Yonas
Seife, Edom
Abdella, Kunuz
Gizaw, Muluken
Getachew Kelbore, SefoniasLook up in the Integrated Authority File of the German National Library
Addissie, AdamuLook up in the Integrated Authority File of the German National Library
Kantelhardt, Eva JohannaLook up in the Integrated Authority File of the German National Library
Wondimagegnehu, Abigiya
Issue Date: 2024
Type: Article
Language: English
Abstract: Background: Cancer incidence is increasing in Ethiopia mainly due to increased life expectancy, while oncological capacities remain limited. Strong referral linkages between different levels of the healthcare system are key to provide timely access to cancer care. In this qualitative study, we assessed limitations and potential of cancer patient referral in the rural Southwest of Ethiopia. Methods: We held four focus group discussions (FGD) with health professionals at one primary and three secondary hospitals and conducted eight in-depth interviews (IDI) with the hospitals´ medical executives and local health bureau representatives. Data was analysed inductively using thematic analysis and emerging themes were categorized within the revised concept of access by Penchansky and Saurman. Results: The inevitable referral of patients with cancer in the rural Southwest of Ethiopia is characterized by the absence of clear communication protocols and the lack of formal referral linkages. The newly implemented hub-system has improved emergency referrals and could be expanded to non-emergency referrals, sensitive to the needs of advanced oncological care. Liaison officers can pave the way but need to be trained and equipped adequately. Referred patients struggle with inadequate transportation systems, the lack of accommodation close to specialized facilities as well as the inability to navigate at those sites due to language barriers, illiteracy, and stigmatization. Few Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) help but cannot compensate the limited governmental support. The shortage of medications at public hospitals leads to patients being directed to costly private pharmacies. In the light of those challenges, cancer remains to be perceived as a “death sentence” within the rural communities. Conclusions: Standardized referral linkages and a multi-faceted support network throughout the cancer care continuum are necessary to make oncology care accessible to Ethiopia´s large rural population.
URI: https://opendata.uni-halle.de//handle/1981185920/118421
http://dx.doi.org/10.25673/116466
Open Access: Open access publication
License: (CC BY 4.0) Creative Commons Attribution 4.0(CC BY 4.0) Creative Commons Attribution 4.0
Journal Title: BMC cancer
Publisher: BioMed Central
Publisher Place: London
Volume: 24
Original Publication: 10.1186/s12885-024-12294-7
Page Start: 1
Page End: 11
Appears in Collections:Open Access Publikationen der MLU

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