Experiences of cancer caregiving in socioeconomically deprived areas of Attica, Greece

Germeni, E. and Sarris, M. (2015) Experiences of cancer caregiving in socioeconomically deprived areas of Attica, Greece. Qualitative Health Research, 25(7), pp. 988-995. (doi: 10.1177/1049732314554098) (PMID:25288404)

Abstract

The shift of the majority of cancer care from inpatient to outpatient settings has given rise to a number of issues that have not yet been adequately addressed. This is especially true in countries undergoing rapid and profound socioeconomic changes that have substantially affected the health care sector. We conducted 12 in-depth interviews with family cancer caregivers residing in socioeconomically deprived areas of Attica, Greece. Using an inductive thematic approach, we identified three major themes: (a) the truth within boundaries, focusing on the flow of information in the triad doctor–caregiver–patient; (b) the evil called “cancer,” reflecting caregivers’ perceptions of the illness; and (c) being left “high and dry,” reflecting participant experiences of home-based care. Against a background of financial crisis, this study underlines the need for safeguarding the rights of chronically ill patients and ensuring that informal cancer care, apart from a cost-effective solution, will also be an efficient one.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This work was supported by the Hellenic Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity and the European Commission (MΙS 339464).
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Germeni, Dr Evi
• Authors: Germeni, E., and Sarris, M.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment
• Journal Name: Qualitative Health Research
• Publisher: SAGE
• ISSN: 1049-7323
• ISSN (Online): 1552-7557
• Published Online: 06 October 2014