“We hope to, but…”: Chinese frontliners' barriers in providing psychosocial care for cancer survivors

Objective

In recent years, there has been an emerging trend of psychosocial oncology caring strategies within the Chinese context. However, many survivors undergoing different stages of the cancer journey continue to report significant life disruptions and unmet psychosocial care needs. While the crucial role frontline professionals play in providing this care, little is known about the critical barriers they encounter. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the barriers Chinese frontline professionals face in providing psychosocial oncology care.

Methods

This study employed a qualitative design with semi-structured interviews. Twenty oncology nurses and social workers with at least one year of experience in relevant specializations were recruited. The interview data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed to identify themes.

Results

Three dominant themes and subthemes were identified: (1) Overburdened clinical work and inadequate training, (2) Emotional and social struggles faced by survivors and their families that hinder the employment of psychosocial care, (3) System failures: social, structural, and policy barriers.

Conclusions

The findings shed light on the complexities and barriers among frontline professionals in providing psychosocial oncology care. A central paradox emerged between professionals' desire to offer comprehensive care and the systemic barriers encountered, including limited institutional support and resources, and low public awareness. This study highlighted the need for a context-specific psychosocial oncology framework for research and practice. Interdisciplinary collaboration should be made among research, policy, and social education, which aims to enrich public awareness of psychosocial oncology and provide financial and resource support for practices.