Understanding the experiences of patients with cancers in hospitals during COVID-19 pandemic in China: A qualitative research study

Abstract

Aim: To explore the experiences of patients with cancers in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design: A qualitative research study. Methods: Using a phenomenological approach, we enrolled 22 patients with cancers in the Hunan Cancer Hospital from 20 February 2020 to 10 April 2020. The interviews were conducted face-to-face and were analysed by Colaizzi's 7-step method. This study aligns with the COREQ checklist. Results: The experiences of patients with cancers in hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic can be categorized into four major themes: (1) emotional changes; (2) delays in visiting hospital; (3) barriers to accessing medical care services, and (4) inconvenience related to logistics services.