Rural Americans
- Geographical location often presents challenges in cancer screening and detection due to decreased access to care, fewer, if any, available specialists, economic hardships and/or lower educational levels.
- Limited access to primary care providers results in lack of preventative and early detection services.
- Patients may travel great distances for cancer care.
- SLOW DOWN. More time or a different approach may be needed when educating, obtaining informed consent, and providing care. Health literacy may be lower than with other patients. Being in a hurry may be considered rude.
- Patients may expect the healthcare provider to be in charge and to make all decisions. Recognize limitations and slowly engage and empower patient to participate in their own care decisions.