Background:
The hospital system relies on efforts of carers to provide many aspects of care for cancer patients, including practical, financial, and emotional support. Carers are considered the invisible backbone of the health care system, yet experience a range of psychosocial, practical and physical challenges with at least half of all Australian carers report unmet support needs.
Methodology:
In Dec 2021, a Carer Support Program was implemented in a comprehensive cancer centre in Melbourne, Australia. The program consists of a Carer Support Officer (CSO), Carer Psychologist and Carer Circle. The CSO provides tailored support to carers, assists in navigating the health system and connects carers with support services. With the carer, the CSO develops a comprehensive wellbeing plan and supports carers through their journey of change. The carer psychologists provide counselling and intervention for mental health concerns related to caring. The Carers Circle is a peer support group providing a safe space for carers to connect.
Impact on practice:
The Carer Support Program has supported over 300 carers between 2021 - 2024. Key impacts include tailored support for carers, facilitated peer support, provision of resources, integration with the consumer experience team for program development, psychological intervention, education of staff and partnering with services.
Carers received a range of supports including referrals to internal services and support in accessing external services, addressing emotional, practical and information needs with the sole aim to improve wellbeing.
Hospital staff receive in-service education to raise awareness of the program and capture a greater number of carers.
Discussion:
As a result from the hospital’s inaugural Supporting Carers Strategy, this model provides carers with support tailored to meet their dynamic needs. The program has enabled greater acknowledgement and advocacy for carers. This will guide service provision, prioritise new initiatives and facilitate a coordinated approach to person-centred care.