Impact of COVID-19 Measures on a Paediatric Oncology Outreach Program:
Medical Perspectives
Abstract
Background Paediatric oncology outreach programs have been effective
development interventions to reduce inequalities in healthcare between
high-income countries (HIC) versus low and middle-income countries
(LMIC). But little is known about its sustainability during times of a
pandemic. This study assesses the impact of COVID-19 government measures
on a paediatric oncology outreach program between three large referral
hospitals in the Netherlands, Indonesia and Kenya. Methods The head from
each paediatric oncology outreach partner site was interviewed using a
semi-structured questionnaire in June 2021. Results COVID-19 government
measures impacted childhood cancer care at all three hospitals. However,
disruptions in services are more prominent at partner sites in LMIC,
increasing existing inequalities.The doctor from Dutch hospital, located
in a HIC, reported only one disruption which is a decrease in
surveillance evaluations for patients who completed cancer treatment.
The doctors from Indonesian and Kenyan hospitals, located in LMIC,
reported multiple disruptions. For example, reduced number of cancer
diagnoses, delayed presentations, medical staff shortages, limited
availability of chemotherapy and blood products, and delayed or modified
treatment administration. Physical interaction between medical teams of
all three participating institutions has slowed down. Hereby, adequate
transfer of knowledge, skills and expertise have been adversely
affected. Conclusion COVID-19 government measures have negatively
impacted the intrinsic nature of the paediatric oncology outreach
program. Disruptions in childhood cancer care services are more
prominent at partner sites in LMIC. Government leaders and policy makers
should take collateral damage of their policies and local settings into
account to protect children with cancer