Exploring the process of receiving pediatric cancer care in Windsor Essex region through the lived experiences of youths living with cancer, parents, and healthcare providers
Dr. Joanne Tay
University of Windsor
FUNDER: Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation (WCCF)
DURATION: 2023-2024
Cancer is one of the leading causes of nonaccidental death among adolescents in Canada. Despite the advances in pediatric cancer treatment which has improved the survival outcomes of young children (<15 years of age), the quality of life among youths (ages 15-19 years) are comparatively poorer. Although local and provincial governments in Canada have taken a concerted effort to bring cancer care delivery closer to communities, youths living with cancer and their families are still unable to receive timely and relevant care without having to travel to tertiary treatment centres. These unnecessary expenses affect the type and quality of care that youths receive from their parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers. By exploring and documenting the experiences of youths living with cancer at Windsor Regional Hospital, and the perspectives of their parents and healthcare providers, we can better understand the gaps in oncology care for youths, which can translate into the development of timely and relevant integrated care for youths with cancer within their own community.
Potential barriers and facilitators of pediatric oncology care within the current regional healthcare system that impact the cancer care experience among youths living with cancer will be identified for those in the Windsor Essex region. Development of targeted interventions to support youths, reduce their sense of isolation, and improve their care can be developed at the Windsor Regional Hospital level, and has the potential to be developed at a worldwide level.
