The Impact on Employment for Rural Cancer Patients and Their Caregivers Travelling to Major Cities for Treatment

Abstract

Purpose. A cancer diagnosis significantly impacts daily life, particularly for those living outside of major cities who must travel to receive cancer treatment. This study investigated the impact of cancer and travelling for treatment on the employment of rural cancer patients and their caregivers. Methods. Cancer patients staying in subsidised accommodation lodges in Queensland, and their nominated caregivers, described employment status prior to diagnosis in a structured interview. Three months later, they answered several open-ended questions about the impact of cancer and travelling for treatment on their employment. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to report and analyse responses. Results. Of 308 rural cancer patients in paid employment prediagnosis, 70% reported a change in employment postdiagnosis, with 62% of these patients no longer working. Many of those still employed postdiagnosis required extended leave, flexible working arrangements, and a gradual return to work, particularly for those experiencing ongoing treatment side effects. Of the 102 rural caregivers in paid employment prior to the patient’s diagnosis, 56% reported a change in employment after diagnosis, with 37% of these caregivers no longer working. Many caregivers were unable to work while at the lodge, except for those with flexible or remote work arrangements and low caregiver burden. Financial stress from loss of income and limited support in returning to work were common experiences. Conclusions. Disruptions to employment are common for people in rural areas affected by cancer. Support from employers is vital, including offering tasks that can be completed remotely or require less physical effort.

Changes in rural caregivers' health behaviors while supporting someone with cancer: A qualitative study

“…Compared to their urban counterparts, rural caregivers must navigate longer travel distances and associated costs for the patient to access treatment 27–29 . Many rural caregivers also experience disruptions to employment and financial stress while caring for someone with cancer 30,31 . Further, research shows that rural caregivers are more likely to experience poorer mental health‐related quality of life than age‐matched counterparts in the general population, 18 and many report unmet needs for information to manage their own health and wellbeing 32 .…”

“… 27 , 28 , 29 Many rural caregivers also experience disruptions to employment and financial stress while caring for someone with cancer. 30 , 31 Further, research shows that rural caregivers are more likely to experience poorer mental health‐related quality of life than age‐matched counterparts in the general population, 18 and many report unmet needs for information to manage their own health and wellbeing. 32 Despite this, little is known about how caring for someone with cancer affects the health behaviors of rural caregivers.…”