Lessons, Message, and Recommendations from Latina Survivor of Cervical Cancer for Healthcare Teams and Providers

Context: Most of the existing research in cervical cancer and healthcare systems is based on large scale quantitative data and primarily focuses on younger reproductive-age women. There is a significant lack of understanding regarding the healthcare system experiences of middle-aged and older Latina women concerning cervical cancer, as well as their perceptions and experiences with preventive services.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to understand the healthcare successes, challenges, and opportunities among middle to older age Latinas in the Pacific Northwest.

Study design and analysis: To fill this gap, we leveraged an innovative qualitative approach for understanding the rich experiences of middle age older Latina women diagnosed with cervical cancer in the Pacific Northwest.

Dataset: We conducted a qualitative study utilizing the Database of Individual Patient Experiences (DIPEx) methodology - a time-tested, research-based approach for conducting and disseminating health and healthcare experiences. This approach emphasizes the utilization of stories to improve care, thereby supporting experience as evidence and informing decision-making in clinical settings.

Population Studied: Inclusion criteria were age 45 years old or older, initial diagnosis of cervical cancer no more than 10 years and no less than 3 months ago, identify as Latina, and reside in the U.S.

Outcome Measures: Interviews were conducted in the participant’s preferred language and commenced with open-ended questions, allowing patients to narrate their stories without predetermined direction. Structured follow-up questions were posed. Questions were designed to uncover experiences with or perspectives with the healthcare system. The final part of the interview involved inviting participants to share messages for healthcare providers.

Results: We found three major themes. For successes, vulnerability by providers supported an emotional connection that was critical to having a positive experience among Latinas. For challenges, Latina women reported the need to experience more trauma informed care by providers. And, for opportunities women shared the need to normalize getting a second opinion. "In my mind, I didn't want to betray my doctor. I didn't want to ask for a second opinion with another doctor. That's what, like, what I went through, I wouldn't want other people to go through."

Conclusion: Latina survivors provided keen insights into how to improve the system for others.