INAUGURAL NI AHP CONFERENCE 2013: Wednesday, 23 October Wednesday, 23 October, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn “AHP’s – Transforming Your Care”

My Journey Through A Cancer Diagnosis A Patient Experience of Radiotherapy Val Hall 23 rd October 2013

“ I’m afraid you have uterine cancer....” 26 th July 2012

Oncology Assessment Integrated model of care  Oncologist  Clinical Specialist Radiographer Partnership /complementary roles Multidisciplinary team working To achieve the best outcome for me  Treatment decisions  Patient experience

6 weeks (28 sessions ) First introduction to the world of therapeutic & diagnostic radiographers Positive patient experience  Person centred  Highly skilled and expert radiographers  Safe and effective care Radiotherapy Management

Person-centred Care Acknowledgment of me as an individual and the unique way in which I was experiencing my cancer diagnosis and the impact on my life I didn’t feel like a “cancer patient” or a set of symptoms DIGNITY & RESPECT

Person-centred Care True engagement in decisions about my care and treatment Active listening v passive engagement Information was communicated in a clear meaningful way Constant reinforcement / opportunity to ask questions PARTNERSHIP

Person-centred Care Behaviours and attitudes demonstrated not only a high level of professionalism but also genuine caring which made me feel relaxed and reassured about my radiotherapy treatment EMPATHY

Person-centred Care Provided with the knowledge and skills enabling me to take control of and manage my own health through treatment and beyond Advice to prevent / minimise side effects of treatment Very practical and common sense approach Didn’t feel overwhelmed CONTROL & INDEPENDENCE

Safe and Effective Care Access to specialist care / advice  First point of contact  Daily assessment of symptoms  Holistic / generic  Dietary advice / skin care  Appropriate referral when required Did not need to wait for medical review or attend my GP throughout FELT SAFE

Access to extended scope practice Non medical prescribing Venepuncture Cannulation Administration of intravenous contrast Demonstrated innovation and modernisation for the benefit of patients EXPERT PRACTITIONERS

The most important professional supporting me through my journey First point of contact within the oncology service Continuity of care through radiotherapy and beyond Holistic care improving my experience as a patient KEY WORKER Clinical Specialist Radiographer

Conclusion My journey through radiotherapy treatment was a very positive experience I was placed at the centre of care Care was delivered by expert practitioners I felt safe TRANSFORMED MY CARE

“Cancer is a journey. You leave the life you know as soon as you hear the words “you have cancer” not knowing what lies ahead for body or soul. Unknown