The establishment of chemo@home: An integrated model of patient-centred service delivery for chemotherapy patients — ASN Events

The establishment of chemo@home: An integrated model of patient-centred service delivery for chemotherapy patients (#283)

Julie Wilkes 1 , Zelda Haskins 1 , Lorna Rogers 1 , S. McGreal 1
  1. chemo@home, West Perth, WA, Australia

A staggering one in two people will experience cancer by the time they reach 85 years of age. The impact on patients and the health system demands new service delivery models. Home based chemotherapy addresses not only hospital capacity issues, but also assists patients and their families, especially those at risk of sub optimal outcomes due to gaps in the current service delivery systems. In WA, a new model of care for home chemotherapy treatment has been established and evaluated. The aim of this project was to establish a safe, easily accessible, integrated and financially viable private home chemotherapy service in WA and to ensure the service met organisational expectations. The available evidence supporting the development of home-based chemotherapy was reviewed. In addition, key recommendations from WA Health's Cancer Services Plan 2012-2017 and other pivotal information related to consumer expectations, gaps in service delivery and the strategic direction of cancer services were identified. The service was established, accredited and evaluated against core values. Evaluation of the first 12 months of achievements against core values showed evidence of: Improved patient experience as 100% of patients found the experience of having their treatment at home excellent; Professionalism through ACHS accreditation; Empathy through patient comments; Partnerships with universities, health funds and many others; Innovation through being the first private chemotherapy and monoclonal antibody service in WA; Flexibility in expanding therapeutic areas; Research through initiating three projects. In conclusion, chemo@home has successfully established a safe, easily accessible, integrated and financially viable private home chemotherapy service in WA. The core values established prior to commencement of the service are currently being met.

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