Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and Icon Cancer Centre secure wins at APHA Awards

MedTech & Diagnostics News: Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and Icon Cancer Centre triumphed at the Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) Awards for Excellence. These awards serve as an inspiration within the sector, showcasing peer examples that underscore the invaluable contributions of private hospitals in enhancing patient care and outcomes.

In the spotlight, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse secured a win for its Opioid Stewardship Program, in the category of ‘Clinical Excellence: Quality of Care and Patient Outcomes’. Introduced in 2020 as a proactive response to the recognised risks associated with opioid use, particularly in the post-surgical phase, this initiative aimed to curtail unnecessary opioid prescriptions and mitigate adverse events.

In a testament to its success, the program achieved remarkable milestones within a short span. Despite a doubling in the number of surgeries performed, there was a sustained reduction in both the quantity and formulation of opioids dispensed at discharge. This transformative program not only reshaped organisational practices but also fostered a culture of conscientious prescribing.

Michael Roff, CEO of the APHA, lauded the program’s holistic approach, stating, “There has been a lot of concern in the community and in medical practice about opioids being inappropriately prescribed and it presents a particularly difficult issue for a cancer hospital, where pain management is an essential part of treatment.

“However, this program not only gives patients a voice about their medications, but also continues to upskill clinicians and provide information to them about their prescribing to improve what they are offering their patients. It’s a great example of multidisciplinary team working with a focus on continuing quality improvement with their patients as the focus – and it’s seen great results for all involved.”

Meanwhile, Icon Cancer Centre clinched victory in the category of ‘Consumer Partnerships and Engagement’ with its Survivorship Program. Designed to provide comprehensive support to cancer patients transitioning from treatment to recovery, this initiative emerged as a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenges of post-treatment life.

The program, developed collaboratively by a multidisciplinary team including survivorship nurses, cancer care coordinators, and site managers, offers an integrated and personalised service tailored to the unique needs of each patient. From the formulation of Wellness Care Plans to the provision of essential post-treatment resources, every aspect is developed in consultation with patients.

With a resounding 70% of patients reporting an improvement in their wellbeing, the program’s impact reverberates across the healthcare landscape.

Mr Roff commended the initiative’s patient-centred approach, saying “This service has not only identified a gap in cancer care and sought to fill it, and it has done so in partnership with patients and the whole healthcare team. It is a great example for others in cancer care to follow and could be rolled out nationally.”

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