Overcoming the distance barrier in relation to treatment for haematology patients: Queensland findings

Abstract

Objective The aim of the present study was to document the financial and psychosocial impact of relocation for specialist haematology treatment in Queensland. Methods This study was a qualitative exploratory study comprising 45 in-depth interviews with haematology patients supported by the Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland. Results The findings indicate that decentralisation of treatment is assisting haematology patients to overcome the profound difficulties associated with travelling to the metropolitan area for treatment. Conclusion Fostering specialist outreach and building capacity in regional cancer centres are service delivery strategies that are greatly appreciated by regional, rural and remote haematology patients who are stressed by the many challenges associated with leaving home to travel distances for specialist treatment. It is the hope and expectation that these findings will make a contribution to informing future health policy and service delivery planning. What is known about the topic? Internationally, there is evidence of the benefits of visiting specialists and the development of local specialist services for cancer patients in regional and rural areas, but there is limited research on the topic in Australia. What does this paper add? The findings herein make a contribution to this area of research through an up-to-date, in-depth consumer perspective on non-metropolitan oncology hospital services for haematology patients in Queensland. The evidence indicates that the opportunity to avoid travel to the metropolitan treating hospitals for regional, rural and remote haematology patients is increasingly an option in Queensland and greatly appreciated by many of those who have this option. What are the implications for practitioners? The findings applaud the work of the health professionals providing the opportunity for regional specialist care for haematology patients. With regard to service delivery and health policy decision making, it is important to note that for patients positive about access to local treatment, psychosocial concerns (e.g. remaining at home, connection with family, avoidance of financial hardship) predominate in their reasoning about benefit. Thus, it is important that regional, rural and remote patients are offered greater choice in treatment options and have more involvement in decision making about specialist care.