Investigation of health services and social needs of persons with larngectomies in Hong Kong: A study of self-help involvement

Abstract

The aim of the study was two-fold: (1) identifying the importance of the health services needs and the social needs of persons with laryngectomies in Hong Kong; and (2) investigating the relationship between the degree of self-help involvement and the perception of the importance of those needs. Forty-six members of the New Voice Club (a self-help group) with at least one year of membership were selected to respond to a questionnaire in a face-to-face situation. Results indicated that both professional speech training available in hospitals/clinics and mutual-learning classes organized by the Club were perceived to be of equal importance. Regular Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) and radiotherapy services were considered to be essential according to one's need, while convalescence care and hospice care were not important. Pre- and post-operative visits and services offered by both professionals and peers were preferred. No relationship was found between the degree of self-help involvement and the respondents degree of needs perceived.