December 12, 2016
Cancer coordinators would benefit Maori patients
A review of cancer nurse coordinators has recommended better promotion in Maori and Pacific communities of the benefits they bring.
Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says the coordinators are helping to improve the diagnosis and treatment process for more than 1000 patients a month
The coordinators are highly experienced nurses with expertise in navigating the system and helping patients access other support services.
They were funded out of Budget 2012, and there are now about 70 across the country.
Dr Coleman says the independent review by Litmus confirmed the coordinators can help make diagnosis and treatment a less stressful experience, as patients and their families have someone to explain clinical information and advise about the next steps in their care.
Litmus also highlighted the opportunity for cancer nurse coordinators to link patients to other services, especially financial and emotional support services.
Past reviews of have found disparities in access Maori get to diagnosis and treatment as being a factor in higher mortality rates.
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