Barriers to Care for Indigenous Women with Cervical Cancer in Guatemala

Abstract:

In Guatemala, rural and indigenous women face disparities in access to prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. This case analyzes barriers faced by Mayra, an indigenous woman from a rural community in Guatemala who was diagnosed with cervical cancer.  Even though all Guatemalans are entitled to free health care provided by the public health system, economic, geographic, linguistic, and cultural barriers prevent women from obtaining specialized healthcare for complex conditions such as malignancy.  Accompaniment and care navigation are potential solutions to overcome these impediments, helping marginalized patients receive treatment and reducing health disparities for indigenous peoples.