An investigation of the healthcare and psychosocial experiences of racialized youth living with serious and life threatening illnesses

We live in a diverse Canadian society that is quickly growing in social and cultural representation. A national survey conducted in Canada in 2016 estimated that children with at least one parent that was born outside of Canada is expected to make up almost half of the total population of children in Canada by 2036. With growing diversity, it is important for us to gain a full understanding of how children’s social and cultural background can influence their health care experiences and identify any disadvantages or barriers some may face in their care are because of their backgrounds. The goal of this project is to better understand the health care experiences of racialized children and adolescents living with serious and life threatening illness, and to explore social and cultural reasons that may influence their understanding of and engagement in their care and well-being. This information will allow us to plan future care so that they best support the needs of youth with mental health and physical health concerns from all social and cultural backgrounds.