Date of Conferral

9-29-2026

Date of Award

September 2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Sciences

Advisor

Compreca Martin

Abstract

African American women with dense breast tissue have experienced challenges related to breast cancer screening, timely follow-up care, and access to diagnostic services. There was limited research showing the experiences of primary care providers (PCPs) who provided care to this population. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of PCPs in Alabama and Washington who provided care to African American women with dense breast tissue, both with and without a breast cancer diagnosis. The conceptual framework for this study was intersectionality theory, which is used to consider multiple social determinants of health when examining health disparities. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with eight PCPs who met the study’s eligibility criteria. Interviews were conducted in person and through Zoom, which were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a thematic analysis. MAXQDA software was used to assist with data organization, coding, and theme development. The findings revealed six themes related to barriers to care, communication and patient education, reliance on radiology services, limited awareness of breast density notification laws, challenges associated with healthcare systems and insurance coverage, and strategies used to support informed decision-making and continuity of care. Participants described factors that influenced access to screening and follow-up services for African American women with dense breast tissue. The findings can contribute to positive social change by informing healthcare providers, healthcare organizations, and policymakers about opportunities to improve breast cancer screening, patient education, follow-up care, and health equity for African American women with dense breast tissue.

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