A unique program is putting breast cancer patients at Redcliffe Hospital at the forefront of their treatment journey, in a bid to ensure the best possible physical, psychological and social outcomes from their care.
Through the unique Co-design Research Internship Program (CRISP), funded by Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital, a consumer, nurse, radiographer and surgical doctor co-designed a project that engaged patients to share their lived experience of breast cancer to help shape the future of care.
“As the second most-commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, breast cancer has a profound impact on individuals, families and the healthcare system. Understanding how patients experience and navigate their care, can help us improve both the journey through and outcomes from treatment,” said Karen Beaumont, Clinical Nurse.
“We discovered that patients – depending on their needs and preferences – can interact with a huge number of people and services, including medical imaging, surgeons, breast cancer nurses, wound care, the cancer care team, chemotherapy, pharmacists, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, lymphoedema clinics, counselling and more,” said Karen.
“We mapped it all out and, immediately, it was clear how overwhelming that could be.”
Through workshops with breast cancer patients, the team tapped into diverse experiences and ideas.
“The feedback, ranging from emotional wellbeing to communication with staff, was both powerful and practical,” Karen added. “It’s now informing real improvements in care.”
When you donate to Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital, you help make these projects possible.
“The good we can do starts with you,” said RBWH Foundation CEO Simone Garske. “Your support enables real change, driven by real voices, for a better, healthier Queensland, now and into the future.”
