# Enhancing the Cancer Care Journey for Indigenous Patients: A Guide for Oncology Nurses

## TL;DR

This paper provides guidance for oncology nurses to improve cancer care for Indigenous patients by addressing cultural and systemic barriers.

## Contribution

The paper offers culturally specific, community-based suggestions for enhancing Indigenous cancer care in Labrador.

## Key findings

- Indigenous patients often face later-stage cancer diagnoses and poorer survival rates due to systemic inequities.
- Community-based suggestions emphasize the need for culturally safe environments and professional development for nurses.
- Systemic changes and advocacy are essential to address historical and ongoing barriers in healthcare.

## Abstract

Background: Indigenous peoples nationally have seen a drastic increase in cancer diagnoses, often at later stages and with poorer survival rates than non-Indigenous Canadians. Colonization, assimilation policies, and racism within our healthcare system are contributors to these inequities. Methods: As a team, we have worked for over a decade to improve the cancer care journey of Indigenous patients in Labrador. We share learnings from a qualitative community-based project with Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit land claim agreement through sharing suggested improvements from participants to improve the cancer care journey. Objective: Acknowledging the diversity of Indigenous groups, we discuss suggestions as a guide and expand the discussion to provide interconnected suggestions for oncology nurses on enhancing care for their Indigenous patients. Conclusions: Oncology nurses play a crucial role in enhancing the cancer care journey for Indigenous peoples, necessitating a commitment to culturally safe environments, ongoing professional development, and advocacy for systemic changes.