How will cancer survivors use survivorship care plans?

Background: Survivorship care plans (SCPs) are internationally endorsed as an important tool to enhance post-treatment survivorship care. To support broad implementation of SCPs, we investigated survivors' preferences regarding SCPs.

Material And Methods: The study was conducted at a comprehensive cancer center.

Evaluation of a hospital-based cancer information and support centre.

Background: Although information seeking is encouraged by health care professionals as a positive coping strategy evidence suggests information needs of those affected by cancer are not always fully met. In response to the need for novel models of information provision and educational support for people affected by cancer, a hospital-based cancer information and support centre (CISC) was introduced into a tertiary cancer hospital. Professional support is provided by a cancer support nurse (CSN) with the clinical experience of working with cancer patients, whilst peer support is provided by volunteers.

The role of the Internet in supporting and informing carers of people with cancer: a literature review.

Background: The Internet is an expanding source of information and support for cancer patients and their families. Studies mostly report patient Internet use. Little is known about how carers (families/informal caregivers/friends) use the Internet and what they find useful.

Evaluation of a pilot 'peer support' training programme for volunteers in a hospital-based cancer information and support centre.

Purpose: Volunteers from Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (Peter Mac) Patient Information and Support Centre (PISC) assist the Cancer Support Nurse by helping patients and families/carers find information and provide face-to-face peer support. Benefits of shared personal experiences between volunteer and patient are clearly different from professional support. Volunteers require specific skill sets and detailed preparation for this role.