In collaboration with Gippsland Regional Integrated Cancer Service (GRICS), Central Gippsland Health Service (CGHS) Cancer Care Improvements Project was devised to expand and promote an evidenced based multidisciplinary team approach to cancer care within the health service.
Recognising the impact of a cancer diagnosis on adults and their families, the support required is an integral component identified in the Victorian Cancer Action Plan. Current literature identifies the many diverse issues that challenge this population, highlighting the need for a co-ordinated, multidisciplinary approach to the provision of cancer care.
The scope of the project impacted on three areas in the CGHS model of cancer care. It afforded the opportunity, through a GRICS supported position, to assess, improve, develop and implement existing and new organisational processes, involving Multidisciplinary team meetings, Supportive Care Screening and Care Co-ordination.
Areas identified within the health service that required further development were the role of videoconferencing for the CGHS hosted GRICS Lung and Mesothelioma MDC meetings, the introduction of supportive care screening into two acute areas of the health service, specifically during transition to Palliative Care and prior to surgery, and improved care co-ordination for patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment within the health service.
The position provided CGHS the opportunity to increase the Lung MDC meetings from monthly to fortnightly due to a 200% increase in patient referrals. Currently 28% of patients with cancer have been screened, whilst transitioning to the Palliative Care Service. Screening has commenced prior to surgery in the CGHS Pre admission Clinic and three CGHS General Surgeons consulting rooms.
The Cancer Care Coordination project has impacted on various areas of the health service, facilitating new processes in the delivery of cancer services at CGHS. The project has fundamentally assisted the CGHS model of cancer care to remain patient focused, innovative and evidenced based.