We are very happy to announce the successful applications that sought funding as part of the GICS 2023 Grants Program. It is very encouraging to have so many service improvement ideas come through to us.
All applications had to meet strict criteria including:
- Target the Action Areas of the Victorian Cancer Plan 2020-24 and the Optimal Care Pathways
- Have the capacity to lead to measurable and sustained improvement in experiences and outcomes for patients diagnosed with cancer living in the Grampians region.
- Seek to better understand or provide a solution to a known, long standing and significant issues
- Consider and include the patient perspective.
We've listed the health services in alphabetical order, with a summary of the projects GICS will be funding this round and we will provide further updates as each project progresses.
Ballarat & District Aboriginal Cooperative (BADAC)
Cancer Calendar
This project involves the development of an Aboriginal Art Calendar that will endeavour to assist in maintaining high screening rates within the Aboriginal community. Each month of the calendar will illustrate / highlight a different type of cancer screening that will align with nationwide / statewide cancer screening campaigns and initiatives normally held throughout each calendar year. The final product of the A4 calendars will be made available for free for the aboriginal community, with each months image/illustration to be created by local Aboriginal artists. The calendar will be linked with forums and events hosted by BADAC along a similar theme.
Central Highlands Rural Health
Multidisciplinary Oncology Prehab/Rehab Support Program
This project is about implementing a local program providing pre-habilitation and rehabilitation exercise incorporating social, carer and multidisciplinary support in a 12 week format with alternating education sessions and social support component.
Grampians Health - Ballarat
Investigate the benefits of a Nurse Navigator (NN) role for Day Oncology Patients.
This project is associated with exploring the context and nature of treatment cancellations and pathology result delays through patient and staff interviews and available data.
Grampians Health - Horsham
Survivorship Clinic including a Wellness Massage Business Plan
This project is looking to integrate a Cancer Survivorship Clinic to look at the unmet needs for cancer survivors into the Symptom Management and Education in Cancer Clinic (SMECC). This clinic is a nurse led initiative that provides education regarding treatment and treatment toxicities; symptom management support; and timely follow up and support during treatment.
Rural Northwest Health
Cancer Awareness, Prevention & Support (CAPS) Yarriambiack
This project is focused on addressing the significant range of barriers to an improvement in the incidence of cancer in the region by increasing awareness, providing preventative advice and associated strategies. This project also seeks to provide methods of support for those living with cancer and cancer survivors.
West Wimmera Health Service
WWHS Skin Check Clinics
This project is looking to implement skin check clinics that will provide much needed access for the West Wimmera catchment for screening and early detection of melanoma and non-melanoma cancers.
