Aim
The Metropolitan/Regional Engagement Project was set up to map and identify high-level issues and gaps with regard to regional/metropolitan patient transfers between the ambulatory cancer services of LMICS and WCMICS. It sought to identify possible scalable interventions to address the gaps.
Method
PRINCE2 principles and methods underpinned the project structure.
A literature review was undertaken as well as comprehensive discussions with many clinicians, consumers and health services.
A number of issues related to patient transfers between LMICS and WCMICS cancer services were identified.
Haematology was recognised as the tumour stream with the greatest volume of Loddon Mallee Region (LMR) residents transferring between LMICS and WCMICS hospitals for chemotherapy. Accordingly, the initial project focus of the project was on haematological cancer with particular emphasis on the transfer of patient information. This work was accompanied by a range of initiatives to build strong clinician/service relationships
Results
The project developed practical products for health care professionals. This embraced the transfer of comprehensive haematology patients information, raising awareness of the challenges faced by regional cancer patients in accessing clinical trials, and direct supportive care referrals to services close to home. A product to help consumers/carers to navigate metropolitan health care facilities was also developed.
Conclusion
This one-year project produced a number of products which are delivering benefits to Loddon Mallee Region (LMR) cancer patients and WCMICS clinicians. The success of the first year initiatives have led to a project extension of twelve months.
Other regional and metropolitan Integrated Cancer Services should consider adopting the Metropolitan Regional Engagement Project tailored to their own needs.