Treatment seeking behavior pathways of Cancer patients in public and private sector facilities: A Qualitative inquiry

In most diseases, treatment-seeking behavior (TSB) often overlooks the diagnostic phase, focusing more on treatment and management. However, in the context of hematological malignancies, the diagnostic process is crucial and has a significant impact on patient outcomes. This study examines TSB in patients with leukemia and lymphoma, emphasizing the period from symptom onset to diagnosis. Employing narrative inquiry and in-depth interviews with 25 patients, the study thematically analyzes using AtlasTi.8 the challenges faced during diagnosis. The findings reveal the critical role of public sector facilities in referrals and the dominance of private sector pathways, highlighting the need for improved diagnostic access and referral systems to enhance cancer care.