Light in the darkness - accessibility to palliative care for cancer patients of Chinese background and their families

Introduction Palliative care addresses the comprehensive needs of advanced-stage cancer patients, enhancing their quality of life. However, due to cultural and linguistic differences, Chinese Australians encounter substantial barriers to accessing these services.Aim This study aimed to investigate the barriers preventing Chinese Australians from accessing palliative care services.Methods Surveys and interviews were conducted with Chinese Australian cancer patients and their caregivers to assess their awareness, understanding, and challenges related to palliative care.Results Among 136 surveyed and eight interviewed participants, a significant lack of awareness and numerous misconceptions about palliative care were evident, with language as the primary barrier despite strong interest in such services.Discussion The results indicate a need to improve the awareness and accessibility of palliative care for the Chinese Australian community. Local health authorities and medical associations should collaborate in developing and disseminating culturally and linguistically appropriate information to increase service uptake among ethnic groups in Australia.