What will I learn?

Learning about Australia's Indigenous history can help us all to develop respect for the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture, which in turn can help us to deliver culturally competent care.  

Through this program, participants will gain comprehensive knowledge of the culturally sensitive care pathways and strategies required to address the unique challenges and disparities faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care after initial treatment and recovery.

Learning Objectives

In this course, you will be provided with the opportunity to explore: 

1. Individual beliefs and knowledge relating to the needs of Aboriginal people with cancer and their families and how these can impact the delivery of culturally appropriate care. 

2. The cancer journey taken by Aboriginal patients being treated in the acute care sector, for the following key stages of cancer:  

   • Diagnosis, staging and treatment planning;  

   • Treatment;  

   • Care after initial treatment and recovery.  

3. Support services, barriers and gaps according to the following principles:  

   • Patient-centred care  

   • Safe and quality care  

   • Multidisciplinary care  

   • Supportive care  

   • Care coordination  

   • Communication  

   • Research and clinical trials

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to recognise: 

• The optimal care pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their families affected by cancer.  

• How culturally safe and responsive health care can ensure a more positive experience and better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

• How effective communication strategies support collaboration between all care providers, patients and families to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of care.

• Tools and resources available to assist in identifying and managing patient needs and complexities; and strategies to improve the patient and their families' journey.  

We would like to take a moment to acknowledge the organisations listed below for their support in the development of this program.