Examining quality of care for adolescent and young adults within their overall cancer care continuum : a qualitative multiple case study.

This study highlights the growing concern in the quality of care for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer within their cancer care continuum. Despite significant advancements in treatment leading to improved survival rates (Lewis et al., 2014; van der Meer et al., 2020), AYA patients face unique challenges in their cancer care compared to both younger children and older adults (Bleyer et al., 2006). The disparity in diagnoses between AYAs and these other age groups (Nass et al., 2015) emphasizes the need for increased focus on the quality of care received by AYA patients during their cancer continuum. Through a qualitative multiple case study approach, this research sheds light on the unique challenges and opportunities for quality of care improvement within the AYA population. This study employed semi-structured interviews with AYA patients aged 15–39 diagnosed with or undergoing treatment for cancer. I recruited participants from both pediatric and adult oncology settings to allow for a comparative analysis of experiences within these environments. By elucidating the specific needs and experiences of eight AYA patients, this study informs practice around tailored interventions aimed at optimizing the quality of care and support services for this vulnerable population using the Donabedian model (1966) as a guiding framework. This study identified both shared and distinct challenges faced by adolescents and young adults with cancer across pediatric and adult oncology settings. All AYAs emphasized gaps across various aspects of care, including diagnosis, preparation for long-term side effects, and access to psychosocial support. Notably, participants treated in pediatric settings benefited from specialized pediatric oncology teams and tailored support services. Conversely, those treated in adult settings encountered challenges navigating an adult-oriented healthcare system, including potential gaps in survivorship planning and fertility options. By understanding these limitations, the study informs the development of targeted strategies to improve the care experience for AYA patients. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the importance of age-appropriate care models that cater to the unique needs and developmental stage of this population. Ultimately, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to improve the quality of care and long-term health outcomes for AYAs diagnosed with cancer.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ed.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Doctoral

Grantor

Baylor University.

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Munoz, Rebecca J., 1988-

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Earl, Julia Collier.

• Adolescent and young adult cancer.
• Quality of care.
• Long-term outcomes.
• Psychosocial support.
• Survivorship.

Statement dc:rights

• Baylor University works are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact libraryquestions@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2104/13164

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:baylor-ir.tdl.org:2104/13164