Bristol Myers Squibb awarded the Patients Association a grant to advance health equity by addressing health disparities and social determinants of health with a focus on people living with cancer and/or blood disorders. The project explores how to reduce health inequalities and improve access to quality social and healthcare for underserved communities. A review of literature/research on health disparities and social determinants of health affecting people living with cancer and/or blood disorders, discussions with stakeholder organisations, a case study interview and focus groups with patients and carers were conducted.
Key findings
- Patients experience significant barriers to care including delays in diagnosis, unequal access to services, and systemic discrimination,
- Patients reported challenges navigating healthcare, a lack of communication, and economic burdens such as high transportation and medication costs,
- Social determinants of health like inadequate housing and living in deprived areas further worsened outcomes,
- Participants emphasised mistrust in healthcare, particularly among racially minoritised and LGBTQ+ communities, and highlighted the need for better coordination, cultural sensitivity training, and localised services.
The report includes a recommendations list, which include increasing investments in social determinants of health and implementing policies and interventions that address social determinants of health; and providing education and training to health and social care staff to better meet the needs of underserved communities, address discrimination and racism, and improve health equity.
The project involved a literature review on health disparities and social determinants affecting patients with cancer and/or blood disorders. Discussions were held with local and condition-specific charities, and we conducted focus groups and a case study interview with patients and carers. These efforts aimed to gather diverse perspectives and first-hand accounts of lived experiences.
Read the report