While new medical treatments have extended the lives of South Australians with cancer, they can still struggle to navigate the health system to receive care that meets their specific needs and addresses disparities in the healthcare resources of some local communities.
On World Cancer Day, today, Flinders University's Caring Futures Institute (CFI) is proud to launch the SA Cancer Navigation Framework and Action Plan.
Developed in partnership with the Cancer Statewide Clinical Network and the Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Health (CEIH), this statewide framework aims to ensure timely and equitable access to cancer care services for all South Australians, by improving their navigation of the healthcare system.
The SA Cancer Navigation Framework and Action Plan focuses on addressing the complex needs of cancer patients, survivors, their families, and carers to reduce barriers to accessing timely and appropriate cancer care.
This innovative framework will also shape future government investments and guide enhancements in cancer navigation throughout the healthcare system.
Project leader and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) at Flinders University, Professor Raymond Chan, says this framework is designed to ensure that every individual in South Australia can access cancer care without any barriers by directly addressing disparities and promoting inclusivity.
"By streamlining navigation through the healthcare system, we aim to reduce delays and enhance patient outcomes, ensuring that patients receive timely support throughout their journey."
"Recognising the importance of a cohesive approach, this framework emphasises collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organisations as part of a crucial partnership that more effectively meets the diverse needs of local patients."
The Framework aligns with the Draft South Australian Cancer Plan and the Australian Cancer Plan, reinforcing the group's commitment to enhancing consumer experience through dedicated cancer navigation strategies in line with SA government priorities.
Associate Professor Michael Osborn, SA Health Haematologist/Oncologist and Cancer Statewide Clinical Network Clinical Lead, says the framework serves as a vital tool for improving access to care and reducing health disparities.
"This framework was identified as a priority by the Cancer Statewide Clinical Network in 2023 and it's very pleasing to see the project come to fruition," says Dr Osborn.
"The Framework acknowledges the valuable care navigation work already underway within the cancer sector. Our aim is to amplify these efforts and ensure efficient and equitable care navigation approaches that put the patient, and their families and carers, front and centre."
The framework incorporates best practices identified through extensive research and stakeholder feedback after consultation with patients, their families, primary care providers, allied health professionals, community groups, Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisations (ACCHO's) and community organisations.
Dr Fiona Crawford-Williams, a research fellow at the Caring Futures Institute, says these partners are committed to promoting this framework as a best practice resource and fostering collaboration to ensure its successful implementation in SA.
"Through collective efforts, we can translate this framework into tangible improvements for those affected by cancer across South Australia," says Dr Crawford-Williams.
