21/04/2026
☢️ 🇺🇸 New study pinpoints barriers to timely head and neck cancer treatment in rural areas.
“New research from Dartmouth Cancer Center identifies key barriers and community-driven solutions to help patients in rural areas stay on track to timely treatment for head and neck cancer.
“A new study led by researchers at Dartmouth Cancer Center pinpoints why many patients in rural areas experience delays in receiving critical follow-up treatment for head and neck cancer, and what can be done to address those gaps.
“Published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, the study examines factors that influence whether patients begin postoperative radiotherapy within the recommended six-week window after surgery, the timeframe known to improve survival for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
“Despite clear guidelines, many patients across the U.S., especially those in rural areas, are not starting radiation therapy on time,” said lead author Garrett T. Wasp, MD, MPH, a medical oncologist at Dartmouth Cancer Center. “Our goal was to better understand why, by listening directly to patients, caregivers, and care teams.”
“The qualitative study engaged patients, caregivers, and clinical staff from two rural-serving cancer clinics at Dartmouth Health. Through structured discussions, researchers identified five main interconnected challenges that can delay treatment. These challenges include:
☢️Difficulties with communication between patients and care teams.
☢️Complex care coordination across multiple providers.
🦷 Limited access to dental care required before radiation.
🚌 Transportation barriers including unreliable public transportation in rural settings.
🤦🏻♀️ The immense emotional and physical strain that often accompanies recovery from cancer surgery.”
👫 Caregivers, in particular, emerged as central to navigating the complexity of cancer care, including managing logistics and advocating for patients. “Caregivers are essential partners in care, but they also carry a great deal of responsibility,” Wasp said. “Supporting them more effectively is an important opportunity for improving outcomes.”
👋👋 Patients also emphasized peer support, consistently telling the research team that hearing from others who had gone through similar experiences made a meaningful difference. “Peer support can help people feel less alone and more prepared,” Schaner said.
Many rural patients with head and neck cancer experience delays in starting postoperative radiotherapy, a treatment that improves survival when delivered within six weeks of surgery. In a new study, clinical researchers at Dartmouth Cancer Center have identified communication gaps, care coordination...
