Evaluation of the role of cancer care coordinator

Program evaluation
11 Nov 2011
Share this page Email this page to a friend Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Facebook Share this page via LinkedIn

People with cancer may come across many health professionals in different treatment facilities at various locations. They often need an experienced clinician to coordinate their care, help them navigate health services and provide a single point of contact for information and support.

The role of the cancer care coordinator is designed to help fulfill this need.

Download the full report on the right of the page, or to get a summary of the evaluation, have a look at the findings in the Executive Summary and Evaluation Snapshot.

The Cancer Institute NSW currently funds approximately 50 full-time equivalent cancer care coordinator positions across NSW. Between February 2009 and October 2010, we commissioned HealthConsult Pty Ltd to undertake an evaluation of the role of the cancer care coordinator . The aim of the evaluation was to gain a  better understanding of the role, the operation of the model and the outcomes of care coordination.

We found that the cancer care coordinator positions have improved the quality and capacity of cancer services in NSW. In particular, the evaluation found that the cancer care coordinator role has had a high impact on three key areas:

  • providing patient-centred care
  • improving care coordination
  • supporting multidisciplinary care.

Cancer care coordinators have demonstrated a high level of commitment to continuing professional development, actively participating in a range of activities.

They are an effective information and education resource, tailoring information to suit patients' needs and explaining it in a way that patients understand. Patients highly value having a single point of contact for any questions or concerns.

Top of page