147: Mental Health Care Disparities Among Ethnic Cancer Patients

This workship is supported by the Socioeconomic Status Related Cancer Disparities Program (SESRCD).

This INTRODUCTORY workshop addresses the importance of integrating psychological care into the treatment of ethnically diverse cancer patients. More than 10 million people in the United States have or have had cancer. In addition to the physical challenges, individuals face multifaceted, life-altering concerns. Ethnic cancer patients are significantly underrepresented in receiving mental health services. Participants learn about the disparate ramifications and experiences of ethnic patients and challenges to quality of life. Finally, strategies for improving care are discussed.

1. Comprehend the psychological ramifications of individuals diagnosed with cancer,
2. Recognize that racial and ethnic minorities in the United States have disparate experiences as they receive medical care and access mental health services while going through treatment,
3. Recognize that cultural values and beliefs influence the manner in which patients both experience and address their illness, and
4. Implement culturally congruent methods to increase access and improve the quality of mental health services provided to racially and ethnically diverse cancer patients.

Kathleen H. Canul, PhD, UCLA, Los Angeles