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Title: Evolution and Revolution – 10 years of cancer advocacy and counting
Aims
This presentation highlights 10 years of cancer advocacy by Cancer Voices South Australia (CVSA). It analyses the evolutionary and revolutionary approaches utilised by CVSA that have influenced change for people affected by cancer. With an increasing number of people surviving a cancer diagnosis there is an increasing number of people seeking to become involved in advocacy, wellness and systems improvement.
Methods
Using qualitative phenomenological research, we analyse the meaning of the lived experience of Cancer Voices SA members over the past 10 years identifying knowledge gained about cancer advocacy and the role of the independent voice in influencing the achievement of better outcomes for people affected by cancer.
Results
Analysis of the work of CVSA since its inception identifies a number of key outcomes:
a greater focus on quality, safety, access and equity in treatment and care
the relationships built within and across health organisations, policy makers, researchers and people affected by cancer
increased education and training using cancer survivors lived experience
increased involvement of cancer survivors in research
increased focus on wellness not just illness
collaborations formed that support the improvement of the effectiveness and efficiency of systems.
Conclusions
The independent nature of CVSA and its collaborations with health, government and research organisations has been both evolutionary and revolutionary and will need to continue in this vein if it is to survive and thrive. By reflecting the diversity, knowledge and experience of those affected by cancer, CVSA has been able to forefront the views of cancer survivors, their partners, family, friends, colleagues and supporters across all cancer types and stages to influence and improve a broad range of issues across the cancer continuum.