Background:
In 2014 the New Zealand Government provided funding to develop and evaluate the Cancer Psychological and Social Support Initiative, now an established Service providing psychological and social work support for cancer patients. The evaluation process was to focus on three priority populations: Māori, rural communities, and socioeconomic deprivation. Subsequently, a national database was developed collaboratively between Te Aho o Te Kahu (Cancer Control Agency) and the Cancer Psychological and Social Support Service (CPSSS). We will present results from the national data collection, highlighting successes, and identifying challenges.
Method:
A national database was developed to capture key indicators of service access and performance. In addition, a visual dashboard was created for service providers, displaying the demographic data and national health collection variables, across national, regional, and district levels. This tool provides a platform to monitor referral numbers and patterns, offering a foundation for data-informed decision-making.
Service Impact:
Across the four-year period of 2020-2023, national referrals to psychosocial oncology services increased by 23%. Referrals for Māori rose by 36%, while Pasifika saw a 20% increase. Patients from rural areas experienced a 41% rise in referrals, and those from high-deprivation communities increased by 32%. However, substantial regional variation in referral rates and service delivery models were identified. The dashboard has provided readily accessible information for managers and clinicians that provides greater understanding of the populations for whom they care for.
Discussion:
The CPSSS national initiative has made measurable progress in improving access to psychosocial care in oncology services for key underserved populations. However, the data collection does not reflect issues of resourcing such as staffing shortages, limited availability of community-based clinics, and constrained service capacity which continue to hinder consistent service provision across regions. Overall, national data collection provides statistical information that can be utilized to improve services and highlight challenges.