Cancer Australia is pleased to support the new Optimal Care Pathway (OCP) for older people with cancer, developed by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA), to improve cancer care and outcomes for older Australians affected by cancer.
This new OCP aims to improve cancer care and outcomes for older Australians affected by cancer. It maps the unique needs and best practice approaches for older people with cancer, from prevention and early detection through to treatment, survivorship and end-of-life care.
OCPs are important in reducing variations in care, improving equity and ensuring that all Australians receive comprehensive, person-centred cancer care. They are used by health services to benchmark cancer care; by health care professionals to deliver optimal care; and by people affected by cancer to understand and advocate for optimal care.
This OCP was developed following extensive consultation across the cancer sector and with consumer representatives, including older people affected by cancer.
This OCP is one of Cancer Australia’s priorities for implementation as part of The National Optimal Care Pathways Framework, a priority of the Australian Cancer Plan. Through the development of this new OCP, we are progressing towards health equity for older Australians affected by cancer.
To view the OCP please visit: Optimal Care Pathways (OCPs) | Cancer Council.
To view the Guide to best cancer care for older people with cancer, please visit: Guides to best cancer care | Cancer Council. This consumer-friendly guide is an important tool to support older people with a cancer diagnosis, providing information and support throughout the cancer care experience. The guide is available in 11 languages, including written and audio versions.
