Oncology@Home

Nothing beats being in your own bed when you’re unwell and this is the catalyst behind the WCH@Home service at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The opportunity for children with cancer and blood disease to receive care at home can significantly alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with ongoing appointments and visits to the hospital. Hospital staff have identified a gap in referral pathways into the WCH@Home service for children being treated in the Michael Rice Centre for Haematology and Oncology (MRCHO).

To ensure the long-term viability of an Oncology@Home service this funding will enable a comprehensive feasibility assessment which is required for any @Home service. To ensure both the safety of patients and longevity of the program this assessment is a crucial first step in delivering a successful service. This funding will enable a dedicated project lead to work closely with clinicians, patients and families to create a model that meets the needs of all.

The feasibility assessment will be developed based upon review of other paediatric home care services to identify safe and equitable treatment and care options to ensure patient and staff safety. As part of the assessment, risk and mitigation strategies will be developed as well as strategies to secure ongoing funding to sustain the project long-term. A co-design approach will include patients and families with first-hand experience of diagnosis and treatment to ensure the service is fit for purpose and is a truly consumer-driven service.