Completed Research Project
An analysis of the practical needs of rural and remote adult and paediatric cancer patients and their families when in the city for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Investigators: White K, Monterosso L, Leigh A, Cooper E, Abbotts S, deCinque N & Wilkes L.
Funding: Edith Cowan University Industry Collaborative Scheme ($18,273)
Administering institution: Edith Cowan University
Abstract: This research project will build on research currently underway in NSW, and was the first in a program of research aimed at improving outcomes and access to services for both adult and paediatric cancer patients from rural and remote communities. The overall aim of this study was to explore the practical needs of rural and remote cancer patients and their families when in the city for cancer diagnosis and treatment. One hundred adult patients and 100 (80 adult and 20 paediatric) family members were invited to participate in the questionnaire survey. Data was collected using a questionnaire (Rural Practical Needs Questionnaire) with closed (Likert-type) and open-ended questions. As well as questions relating to practical needs, demographic questions were included in the questionnaire. Using the statistical package SPSS, quantitative data was tallied, percentages calculated, tabulated and described. From these recommendations, education and health care and community practices were developed. Data collection is now complete with 56 adult patients, 15 paediatric family members and 8 adult family members having been recruited.
