The Victorian Cancer Services Framework (2003) recommended establishing tumour streams to reduce variations in practice. In response, the Department of Health developed the Patient Management Frameworks (PMFs) to guide optimal care management of people with cancer across fifteen tumour types. The PMFs aim to improve cancer outcomes by providing a state-wide consistent approach to care.
The PMFs were promoted to the Integrated Cancer Services (ICS) as a tool for supporting quality and service improvements. In 2008, the Department surveyed 41 ICS teams to evaluate the implementation and use of the PMFsi. Of those surveyed, 31% had used the PMFs for service mapping; 30% to develop educational materials promoting the cancer reform agenda; and 21% for benchmarking activities. The PMFs have also informed quality improvement initiatives such as the development of local referral and care pathways.
Since the PMFs were published in 2006, the Department has released additional policies supporting the implementation of coordinated, multidisciplinary and supportive care. The ICS have made significant advances in these areas, and as such it is timely to review the PMFs to assess how they can be used to drive quality improvements in the future. The Cancer Council Victoria has been funded by the Department to coordinate this process. The objectives of the review are to ensure the PMFs reflect best evidence and practice; identify areas for improvement; and to develop adjunct resources to assist consumers understand the care pathway. As a key stakeholder, input will be sought from the ICS throughout the review process to ensure the revised PMFs continue to support the delivery of optimal care at the regional level with the aim of improving cancer outcomes across the state.