Mater’s First Nations partnership boosting oncology care
For many, walking into Mater’s Cancer Care Centre can be a very worrying and anxious time, but having a familiar face like Clare Ainsworth’s can provide additional comfort.
The 29-year-old has taken on a role as a First Nations cancer care navigator, part of a new program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on their journey at Mater’s Cancer Care Centre.
Whether patients are requiring surgery, chemotherapy or a family member is there to support a loved one, Clare is one of the first points of call, guiding patients through options and educating them.
A daunting experience
“It can be a really daunting experience for patients walking into the centre,” Ms Ainsworth said.
“So often patients are unaware of additional support and services available to them, I can help with that.
“Patients have loved having someone they can call and talk to anytime.”
Specialist cancer care is crucial in ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can access high-quality treatment and experience better outcomes.
“There are cultural differences that need to be considered in all care pathways,” Ms Ainsworth said.
Clare Ainsworth has taken on a role as a First Nations cancer care navigator.
“I think knowing that I can not only provide a clinical understanding but also a cultural understanding is a real benefit.”
In the coming months Mater will also welcome an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander medical student. In partnership with the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) and Cancer Australia, the hosting program aims to provide invaluable placements to late-stage students to explore pathways into oncology and cancer care.
It’s hoped that welcoming late-stage medical students can strengthen the pipeline of First Nations doctors entering the cancer workforce and hopefully improve the delivery of culturally safe health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
Committed to providing exceptional patient care
Director of Mater Cancer Services, Professor Phillip Good, said his dedicated and experienced team is committed to providing exceptional patient care from diagnosis all the way through treatment and post.
“We are here to ensure care is at the centre of everything we do, every day,” Professor Good said.
“Clare has been a great addition to the team, and we look forward to continuing work with AIDA and Cancer Australia, welcoming our first medical student, later this year.
“First Nations health professionals play a crucial role in delivering culturally safe care and this partnership is a pivotal step in addressing any gaps in our system.”
