Aim
Current approaches to survivorship care and surveillance vary between institutions and do not necessarily meet the needs of all patients. In response SA Cancer Service in collaboration with key stakeholders is leading the development of a State-wide Survivorship Framework that will outline the minimum agreed standard of care to all consumers treated with curative intent irrespective of tumour type. This will enable consistency and monitoring of the quality of care delivered, meeting the needs of consumers whilst promoting ongoing self-improvement of the system.
Method
Key stakeholders and champions including health professionals, consumers, researchers and service providers from government and non-government organisations are collaborating on this project. Barriers and enablers to care are being identified through review of existing survivorship care models including COSA Model for Wellness. Stakeholder consultation, literature review, modelling and pilot trials are also informing the framework. Pilot initiatives are being used to explore key components of quality survivorship care including end of treatment summaries, needs assessment and stratification, self-management, rehabilitation and workforce development. The most appropriate models for follow-up care and surveillance across the state will also be identified in this project.
Results
This presentation will outline the processes used to develop a consumer-centred, wellness approach to survivorship care addressing the physical and psychosocial implications of cancer at a state-wide level.
Conclusions
Whilst many survivorship initiatives, programs and research exist or are being undertaken across Australia, South Australia is unique in developing a state-wide consumer-centred approach inclusive of all regardless of age, tumour type, geographic location, cultural background and socioeconomic status. Work continues on the development of the framework with the first phase of the project due for completion in December 2015.