Lay summary
The cancer-related health information needs of New Zealand patients has not yet been described but, based on the current evidence, it is likely that health information needs are not met. The information needs and preferences for how this is delivered may differ between cultures. This project has two objectives: 1. to understand the perioperative health information needs of patients who have had surgery to treat bowel cancer; 2. to understand what health information is routinely provided by clinicians to patients with bowel cancer. We will interview Māori and non-Māori who have undergone, or supported a whānau member who has undergone, colorectal surgery to treat bowel cancer. We will also survey bowel cancer surgeons, nurses and support staff to understand if there is inequity in health information provision and perceived needs across New Zealand.