Report Reveals Stark Health Inequities for Cancer and Blood Disorder Patients
A new report has brought to light the alarming health disparities faced by patients living with cancer and/or blood disorders. The report, funded by Bristol Myers Squibb and released by the Patients Association, highlights the significant impact of social determinants of health, systemic barriers, and discrimination on these underserved communities. The report also offers recommendations for improving access to equitable healthcare.
The findings of the report, released on Monday 16th December, 2024, shed light on critical issues such as economic and social factors, mistrust in healthcare services, systemic racism, and lack of coordinated care. These factors contribute to the widening gap in health outcomes and standards of care for cancer and/or blood disorder patients from marginalized communities.
The report calls for a patient-centred approach that prioritizes shared decision-making, ensuring that patients are treated as equal partners in their care. It also urges for a multi-agency approach to address health disparities by aligning national and local strategies, such as NHS England’s Core20PLUS5 framework, to enhance access to early cancer diagnosis.
According to the report, patients from underserved communities consistently experience worse health outcomes and lower standards of care. These can be attributed to delays in diagnosis, lower uptake of screening programs, and distrust of healthcare systems. Barriers such as low health literacy, cultural insensitivity from staff, and systemic discrimination further hinder equitable access to care.
In interviews conducted for the report, patients highlighted critical issues, including difficulties navigating healthcare systems and insufficient communication about their rights and available benefits. Many patients also reported facing financial difficulties due to transportation and medication costs.
Organizations working with underserved communities emphasized the pervasive mistrust in the health and care system among marginalized communities. This mistrust often stems from discrimination, such as delayed diagnoses and unequal access to treatment. LGBTQ+ patients and those with sickle cell disease described particularly hostile or dismissive interactions with healthcare providers.
The report also draws attention to the role of social determinants of health, such as inadequate housing, poverty, and living in deprived neighborhoods. These factors are closely linked to higher rates of cancer and mortality, as well as reduced access to essential healthcare resources.
Addressing these challenges requires urgent action at both the national and local level. The Patients Association calls on policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community organizations to work together to ensure equitable access to care for all.
Reflecting on the report, Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association, stated, “Equitable healthcare is an urgent necessity. It is deeply concerning that barriers such as systemic discrimination, financial hardship, and mistrust of the health and care system persist, disproportionately affecting underserved communities. Only by addressing these disparities can we achieve a health and care system that provides equality and dignity for all. We call on the government and the health and care system to align national and local strategies, address the social determinants of health, and foster trust between patients and healthcare providers. We must work together to close these gaps and build a system rooted in fairness, trust, and accessibility.”
For more information, please contact media@patients-association.org.uk.
Notes for Editors:
– The Patients Association’s purpose is to ensure that everybody can access the health and care they need to live well, by ensuring that services are designed and delivered through equal partnership with patients. It is an independent charity.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.