Mrs Anna Glover1, Miss Siobhan Gleeson1
1Canberra Health Services, Canberra, Australia
Biography:
Anna is a Senior Speech Pathologist and Profession Lead for Acute Speech Pathology within Canberra Hospital. She has over 12 years’ experience in head and neck cancer management and is passionate about collaborative MDT care, quality improvement and mentoring speech pathologists.
Siobhan is a Speech Pathologist working with people with head and neck cancer at Canberra Hospital and is passionate about evidence-based practice to promote best outcomes. Siobhan is a member Head & Neck Cancer Australia’s Clinical Advisory Group. She has a keen interest in collaborative care throughout treatment and survivorship.
Abstract:
Aim:
The purpose of this initiative was to undertake development and evaluation of a sustainable head and neck cancer support group (HNCSG). Research demonstrates HNC treatment impacts quality of life and well-being with life changing side effects. HNC patients identified a gap for ongoing support post treatment which this initiative aimed to address.
Method:
The structure and content of the group was established by a MDT, including consumer representative, based on literature review, benchmarking and consumer feedback. The HNCSG was established for patients and carers and runs bi-monthly (online or in person), focusing on ongoing education and social connection through sharing of experiences. The education topics presented by Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, Radiation Oncology and Psychosocial health professionals have the highest attendance. Group evaluation is undertaken through surveys and participant and coordinator feedback.
Results:
This HNCSG remains a sustainable initiative within current resources with consistent engagement and attendance. Evaluation identified key themes including peer support, connection, education and well-being. Unexpected, additional benefits from the support group included development of a bi-monthly newsletter, establishment of a social coffee group and participant advocacy roles through HNC Australia. This initiative demonstrates the opportunity for health professionals to implement similar support groups providing benefits to meet patient’s unmet needs following health related psychosocial distress.