Background: The study aimed to gain insight into the experiences of patients with cancer and survivors regarding the integration of social needs assessment into their care, while also gathering perspectives from patient navigators on the barriers to obtaining and utilizing social needs information during cancer care, which taken together may influence cancer care policies. By comparing the perspectives of patients and navigators, the study sought to inform best practices for integrating, identifying, and addressing social needs to improve patient experiences and outcomes.
Methods: We conducted qualitative interviews and self-report surveys involving patients with cancer, providers, and patient navigators or care coordinators, seeking their insights and firsthand experiences related to health-related social needs in cancer care.