Exploring group visits as a way to involve the social network in cervical cancer screening: Differences by Latino subgroup

Latinas have higher cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates than White Americans, yet are under-screened for cervical cancer. Research suggests that strategies based on social networks and social support can increase cancer screening for Latinas. In previous research, Latinas suggested attending group visits for Pap tests. In group visits, women who are all acquainted would have consecutive appointments and remain together in the waiting room. Are group visits an appropriate way to deliver social support for Latinas? Will group visits appeal to different Latino subgroups? For this study, we conducted five focus groups with Latinas to test materials for a future group visit study. We also explored the attitudes toward group visits of participants from three Latino subgroups: Mexican, Puerto Rican, and South-American. We used content analysis to analyze the data. Participants' perceived advantages of group visits included: support for each other, “confianza” (trust), language compatibility, and sharing rides. Most participants reported making health-related decisions in consultation with others in their social circle and felt that the “strength” derived from attending visits with others would give them the courage to ask questions to their provider. A subset of participants considered group visits an option only when the group was composed of women from their intimate social circle. Others preferred not to attend group visits for privacy reasons or because “this is something you do alone.” Some of the points of view reflected differences among Latino subgroups. Group visits can be a culturally competent approach to integrate social networks and support cancer screening and improve compliance with screening guidelines. Yet, this approach must be tailored to each Latino subgroup.