Advancing Equitable Cancer Care: A Innovative Approach to Transformative Action in BC

In BC, some groups face unfair barriers in receiving adequate cancer care due to factors like racism, stigma, discrimination, poverty, mental health and substance use challenges, and/or disabilities. Over the next five years, my research aims to tackle these disparities. First, we will team up with people who know these issues firsthand to form a community-engaged research team. Together we will identify what research is most needed and lead innovative studies to address cancer-related inequities. Our primary focus involves developing a new approach to caring for cancer patients. We will create an equity model of care based on principles of equity-oriented healthcare, integrating trauma-informed care, cultural sensitivity, and strategies for addressing substance use health. Additionally, we will gather patient feedback to continually improve care quality. These new approaches will be piloted in specific cancer clinics to assess their effectiveness. Success means more equitable and improved cancer care for the diverse communities we serve in BC.