Cancer Australia will be putting the spotlight on the importance of consumer engagement across the cancer spectrum at the World Cancer Congress today (4/12).
“Increasingly, people affected by cancer are seeking to be involved in decisions about their care.” Cancer Australia CEO, Professor Helen Zorbas said.
“Evidence suggests that involving consumer leads to improved health outcomes, improved safety, a more trusted health system and a more satisfied workforce.”
Cancer Australia will be hosting a number of sessions throughout the day that aim to demonstrate best practice care and the positive impact of involving consumers in decision making.
The ABC’s Dr Norman Swan will lead a highly interactive workshop with researchers, health professionals, policy makers and consumers that will challenge participants while demonstrating best practice approaches to meaningful consumer engagement.
Cancer Australia’s CEO, Professor Helen Zorbas will also chair a symposium involving Australian and international leaders with a focus on accelerating progress through positive engagement with consumers.
“There are many areas where the active participation of consumer has led to positive changes, including setting priorities for cancer research, policy development and health service improvements.” Professor Zorbas said.
“Through these sessions, Cancer Australia will showcase successful approaches it has developed to consumer engagement and will provide Congress participants with proven effective strategies and resources.”
The 2014 World Cancer Congress is a Union for International Cancer Control initiative and is being hosted by Cancer Council Australia from 3-6 December 2014.
Media note:
Cancer Australia CEO, Professor Helen Zorbas is available for interview.
Media wishing to attend the Congress should register their interest at:
worldcancercongress.org/press-media
Media contact:
Simon Thomas 0438 209 833 or (02) 9357 9401
Note for editor:
Cancer Australia resources
Cancer Australia has a number of frameworks, tools and resources to assist organisations committed to meaningful consumer engagement for better health outcomes, including:
- National Framework for Consumer Involvement in Cancer Control
- The Consumer Involvement Toolkit
- The Consumer Learning website
More information for health professionals:
consumerinvolvement.canceraustralia.gov.au
More information for consumers:
consumerlearning.canceraustralia.gov.au
To view Cancer Australia’s animated consumer involvement video, please visit:
youtube.com/canceraustralia
2014 World Cancer Congress
The World Cancer Congress is the leading international conference for cancer control experts, practitioners, and advocates who share the latest information in cancer implementation science.
The 2014 World Cancer Congress Joining Forces - Accelerating Progress will emphasise the impact that can be realised by consistently and energetically applying what we know, rather than waiting for possible future "breakthroughs" to change the landscape.
For more information on the Congress, please visit:
worldcancercongress.org