Barriers and Facilitators of Health Care in People with Cancer in a Commune in Northern Chile: Qualitative Report

Abstract

Objective. Analyze the main access gaps that affect people with cancer in a community in northern Chile. Methodology. It was approached from the interpretive paradigm, qualitative methodology, and from the content analysis approach according to Bardin. The sample included four cancer patients and four family caregivers. In-depth interviews were conducted, and a grid of guiding questions was used. Authorization was obtained from an accredited research ethics committee. Results. The thematic categories identified were; a) availability, b) accessibility, c) psychosocial and d) bureaucratic, e) support networks, and f) prevention strategies. Conclusions. According to the informants, the identified barriers existed before the pandemic, but they increased during it. These can be addressed by decision makers, carrying out more preventive actions aimed at cancer detection, psychological support in the therapeutic trajectory of patients and families, improving education for families and health personnel, increasing the number of specialists oncology, and bringing cancer services closer to geographical areas far from the large specialty centers.