Shaping the Future of Youth Cancer Care in Windsor-Essex Region: Insights and Recommendations based on System Strengths and Challenges

Background: Despite the advancements in oncology care, systemic barriers to care persist, affecting the experiences and outcomes of youths with cancer, their caregivers, and healthcare providers. Youth with cancer and their caregivers often report feeling underserved by healthcare systems, particularly in psychosocial support and aftercare. Healthcare providers experience parallel challenges, including limited resources and support, which hinder their ability to provide high-quality oncology care. The availability of cancer care services and experiences of youth with cancer in smaller communities remain underexplored, leaving potential gaps in support systems and healthcare accessibility. Objective: This study examined the strengths and challenges of the current oncology care practices from the viewpoints of youth with cancer, caregivers, and healthcare providers living and practicing in the Windsor-Essex region as well as explored their recommendations for development of effective care. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with youths with cancer (n=2), caregivers (n=6), and local healthcare providers (n=6). Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using a qualitative thematic analysis approach. Results: The key strengths and challenges identified were: 1) the Value of holistic support services, 2) the Availability of resources, and 3) the Quality and support of youth oncology care and services. Recommendations generated from participants were: 1) Enhancing equitable supportive care for youth in oncology and 2) Strengthening cancer care capacity and collaboration. Implications: The findings highlight the need to enhance supportive services and strengthen infrastructure for sustainable, high-quality youth cancer care. Future research should focus on developing care models that integrate holistic, age-appropriate supports alongside medical treatment.