The CanCare Navigation Program is a free peer based, non-medical service that focuses on support, education and advocacy for people with any type of cancer who live in southern Sydney. As part of this program we recruit and train volunteers to become CanCare Navigators.
Navigators then provide one-on-one support to people, who do not have the support they need as they face the many challenges a cancer diagnosis brings. The logistic and practical help a navigator can provide allows a person to take time to process information, improve their personal well-being, receive patient centred care and build a support network.
The Program complements the provision of existing healthcare services by bridging a gap between the hospital and the home. People with cancer spend most of their time outside of the healthcare setting, where many people have little support. People identified as vulnerable, elderly, or isolated by health care staff at Sutherland Hospital, St George Public Hospitals and St George and Waratah Private Hospitals and the NSW Cancer Council are referred to the program. People can also self-refer.
Once referred the person is matched with a navigator, who then becomes part of their support network. There is a regular feedback mechanism where the navigator or Program Manager updates hospital staff and alerts them to any concerns.
The program commenced in October 2016. Since then we have trained over 30 volunteers who have supported more than 50 people with cancer. Our volunteers have provided over 600 hours of free support to people who are vulnerable, socially isolated or economically disadvantaged and have performed over 250 tasks.
Evaluations with users and stakeholders have been extremely positive. Those using the service cite knowing there is always someone there is the best part of having a navigator and being involved in the program.