Aims
As more and more people are living longer with cancer, it is increasingly becoming a chronic disease. The health service system in Victoria contains a range of chronic disease management programs which have the potential to improve quality of life and reduce physical and psychological complications. Utilization of these services is not optimal in the Loddon Mallee Region of Victoria for people affected by cancer.
This project aimed to increase the utilization of existing chronic disease services by people affected by cancer in the Loddon Mallee Region through communications and training activities.
Methods
Provide training to increase workforce knowledge about the potentially chronic nature of cancer in three community services, nine medical practices and two health acute services.
Develop promotional materials to increase referrals of appropriate cancer patients for GP led Chronic Disease Plans (Medicare items 721 and 723). Distribution through Primary Care Network and face to face meetings.
Results
Training participants generally agreed that there had been under-referral of cancer patients for GP led Chronic Disease Plans and chronic disease services. Increased confidence to make these referrals was demonstrated.
Three services adapted their promotional material so that cancer patients were explicitly identified as being eligible for chronic disease programs.
A community rehabilitation centre implemented a workforce restructure to include a cancer rehabilitation specialist stream and improved linkages with cancer community services.
A Hospital Admissions Risk Program extended its case management service to address needs of people with complex needs and cancer.
Conclusions
The project raised awareness of cancer as chronic condition. Positive strategies have been implemented to increase access for people affected by cancer into suitable programs.
Consultation with oncologists to discuss partnerships with primary health providers as part of outpatient follow up requires further consideration.