Aims:To explore and document the strategies and language used by experienced health professionals to communicate effectively about cancer and its treatment with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (hereafter respectfully referred to as Aboriginal) patients.
Methods:Audio-recorded, semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to face or via telephone with health professionals, who were currently or had previously, worked with Aboriginal people with cancer. Purposive recruitment is continuing until data saturation. Currently,3 females and 2 males, 40% Aboriginal, from various disciplines (e.g. Oncologist, Radiation Oncologist, Aboriginal Health Worker) have been interviewed and thematic analysis using a bottom up, essentialist/realist approach has being employed to analyze the data.
Results: Current themes identified include the need to: a) be aware that cancer may be perceived as a death sentence; b) create a safe, respectful, relaxed environment for consultations to take place in (e.g. considering gender, roles, physical environment, body language, power imbalances, demonstration of respect); c) avoid making assumptions, ask and encourage questions; d) take time to understand patients’ preferences, cultural beliefs and values, and explain and plan treatment accordingly (e.g. group appointments together to minimise time away from home); e) facilitate and allow time for collective/family-based decision making (e.g. by allowing for longer appointments, use of tele-health); f) use scans, x-rays, photos, diagrams and drawings as communication aids; g) explain cancer using relatable analogies (e.g. a tree and roots, or a weed with seeds as metastases); and h) use simple language and avoid numbers.
Conclusions: These findings will inform the development of educational materials to support health professionals to work effectively with Aboriginal people affected by cancer, with the ultimate aim of increasing the number of Aboriginal people who understandtheir cancer and its treatment, experience positive interactions with the health system and have optimal cancer treatment outcomes.