Helen Harries
Hywel Dda University Health Board
More people are being diagnosed and surviving prostate cancer each year and advanced cancer treatment modalities has increased the number of people living with prostate cancer. Despite improvements in survival, not all people affected by prostate cancer are living well. Current treatment modalities for prostate cancer are associated with high risk of side effects and have significant implications on health-related quality of life.
The project:
In October 2021, a new virtual service ‘Prostate Active Care Together’ (P.A.C.T) was funded, to implement best practice and holistic care that empowers people with prostate cancer to self-manage side effects of treatments and improve their health outcomes. The programme capitalises on the use of available technology and digital platforms, to ensure timely access to assessment and support.
Our new vision would be to work collaboratively with our primary care partners to evolve the service further, with the potential to be scaled up and adopted on a pan-Wales basis.
Approach:
Using a stratified approach to symptom management provision, providing advice on the self-management of symptoms, exercise, healthy lifestyle, nutrition and advice on mood , fatigue, and wellbeing, for patients affected by prostate cancer within HDUHB.
Anticipated benefits:
To allow prostate cancer patients in the community to access information/ interventions pre, during, and post cancer treatment. It will provide the opportunity for the team to cascade information to the primary care team if there are medical changes to the patient which needs to be addressed, avoiding escalation to emergency and outpatient services.
Delivering preventative 1:1 and virtual group intervention sessions with patients in the community in achieving maximum health and wellbeing.
Patients will be in greater control of their health and well-being needs and assume the expert patient role in relation to their own wellbeing, nutrition, and exercise.
Improved wellbeing, quality of life and improved patient experience through a patient’s cancer journey.
