Communication challenges experienced by migrants with cancer: A comparison of migrant and English‐speaking Australian‐born cancer patients

Abstract

ObjectivesUnderstanding the difficulties faced by different migrant groups is vital to address disparities and inform targeted health‐care service delivery. Migrant oncology patients experience increased morbidity, mortality and psychological distress, with this tentatively linked to language and communication difficulties. The objective of this exploratory study was to investigate the communication barriers and challenges experienced by Arabic, Greek and Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese) speaking oncology patients in Australia.MethodsThis study employed a cross‐sectional design using patient‐reported outcome survey data from migrant and English‐speaking Australian‐born patients with cancer. Patients were recruited through oncology clinics and Australian state cancer registries. Data were collected regarding patient clinical and demographic characteristics and health‐care and communication experiences. Data from the clinics and registries were combined for analysis.ResultsSignificant differences were found between migrant groups in demographic characteristics, communication and health‐care experiences, and information and care preferences. Chinese patients cited problems with understanding medical information, the Australian health‐care system, and communicating with their health‐care team. Conversely, Arabic‐ and Greek‐speaking patients reported higher understanding of the health‐care system, and less communication difficulties.ConclusionsOur study findings suggest that migrant groups differ from each other in their health communication expectations and requirements. Lower education and health literacy of some groups may play a role in poorer health outcomes. Public health interventions and assistance provided to migrants should be tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of that language or cultural group. Future research directions are discussed.

Chinese‐Australian women with breast cancer call for culturally appropriate information and improved communication with health professionals

“…Regarding communication challenges, an Australian comparison study revealed that Chinese migrant cancer patients experienced more difficulties with understanding the healthcare system and communicating with their health care team, compared with their Arabic and Greek migrant counterparts . Although using interpreters could potentially eliminate communication barriers, the quality of such services is questionable.…”

“…Interpreters are also not always accessible when required or available in the range of language groups . Despite the significant communication challenges, Chinese migrants in Australia and the United States have also shared positive experiences where they felt comfortable with the interpreter and spoke favorably about their interaction with their doctor …”

Culturally and linguistically diverse oncology patients' perspectives of consultation audio‐recordings and question prompt lists

“…Not all migrant groups experience the same level of communication difficulties . Nor do all patients want communication interventions; in some cases, these tools directly contradict cultural norms such as not questioning doctors, or utilising assistance only from interpreters or family .…”

“…Time pressures in consultations have resulted in suboptimal provision of information to migrants, regardless of interpreter presence, and significant numbers of migrant patients have incorrect understanding regarding their cancer diagnosis . Further, limitations in literacy and health literacy, including understanding of a foreign healthcare system, can further compound difficulties with understanding and remembering health information . While research data cited is country‐specific, communication barriers and lack of understanding regarding novel healthcare systems can be potentially universal for migrants within new host countries.…”

“…11 Further, limitations in literacy and health literacy, including understanding of a foreign healthcare system, can further compound difficulties with understanding and remembering health information. 12 While research data cited is country-specific, communication barriers and lack of understanding regarding novel healthcare systems can be potentially universal for migrants within new host countries. This is of increasing concern, as global migration is expected to rise.…”