Oncology symptom management reform for chemotherapy patients at Mercy Hospital for Women
Oncology symptom management reform for chemotherapy patients at Mercy Hospital for Women
A NEMICS service improvement grant supported a project at the Mercy Hospital for Women (MHW) in Heidelberg, Melbourne, to identify system improvements for symptom management for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Impact
The project reviewed the current symptom management processes at MHW, finding that the current service could be improved to increase the quality and comprehensive care provided to patients. It was concluded that a Symptom and Urgent Review Clinic (SURC) would be a valuable addition to the care pathway of patients undergoing systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT), helping to improve patient experiences and outcomes. Through the implementation of a SURC, the project anticipated there would be a reduction in oncology presentations to the emergency department, which would minimise stress on the health system, decrease costs, and prevent unnecessary hospital presentations where immunosuppressed patients could be exposed to multiple hospital infections.
In designing a solution, various stakeholders were engaged. This collaborative approach ensured that the design meets the needs of all parties involved and operates seamlessly.
Outcome
The project has highlighted that access to a SURC at MHW would be extremely beneficial to patients and improve care and has created a feasible and sustainable symptom management service model for MHW patients, designed to support patients, promoting optimal care in and out of hours and to utilise experienced staff to provide symptom triage, management and support. A proposal will seek organisational support to establish the SURC model at the MHW.
Contact
Ms Janiece Williams, janiece.williams@mercy.com.au
