Year of Publication

2024

College

Public Health

Date Available

4-27-2024

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)

Committee Member

Dr. Angela Carman

Advisor

Dr. Julia Costich

Co-Director of Graduate Studies

Dr. Jennifer Redmond Knight

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background:

Cancer survivorship care programs play a vital role in supporting cancer survivors and improving their quality of life. Understanding the landscape of survivorship and the potential barriers is key to optimizing care delivery.

Methods:

The primary purpose of this cross-sectional study was to explore existing cancer survivorship care programs offered by Commission on Cancer (CoC) accredited hospitals in Kentucky. Data from the Markey Cancer Affiliate Network (MCCAN) from 2022 through 2023 was analyzed. Variables included hospital characteristics such as rural code, types of survivorship services offered, and reported barriers to these services.

Results:

Analysis of n=19 CoC facilities revealed significant variations in hospital and oncology bed numbers, as well as analytic caseloads. A notable increase in MCCAN affiliations for the years 2006 and 2017 was observed. Most hospitals served rural populations. It was also noted that patient navigators were limited or not available at all in some hospitals. All facilities’ survivorship activities were in alignment with the list of services outlined by CoC standard 4.8, but variance in service types offered were observed. Reported barriers included a lack of promotion, limited financial resources, and Electronic Medical Record (EMR) technical issues.

Discussion:

Clinical implications for this study included raising awareness of available survivorship series and addressing barriers at both the urban and rural levels. Practice and policy implications involved interventions to increase service promotion and funding to expand survivorship care services and staff – particularly in rural areas.

Conclusions:

This study helped to highlight survivorship care delivery in Kentucky and the need for continued research and improvement. Through addressing barriers, gaps in services, and sufficient survivorship staffing, improved quality of life for cancer survivors and caregivers could be achieved. Continued research efforts and continued involvement of survivors, caregivers, and healthcare providers are vital to improving survivorship care and outcomes.

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