Consumer participation

Key messages

Evidence is mounting for the benefits of consumer and carer involvement in improving health services.

Engagement with consumers is integral to the development, implementation and evaluation of cancer health policies, programs, services and research.

A strategic approach that involves consumers and carers as drivers in the quality improvement of cancer services in Victoria has been developed. This approach ensures effective participation of consumers, carers and community members as partners in the Integrated Cancer Services (ICS).

International and local support for consumer participation is increasing and evidence is mounting on the benefits of consumer and carer involvement in improving health services.

For consumers and carers, this approach acknowledges and values the input of people who have experienced the cancer journey, and makes a real contribution to legitimising the role of consumers and carers as key partners in the planning, delivery and reform of cancer services.

A guide to enhancing consumer and carer participation in Victoria’s Integrated Cancer Services outlines a strategic model to support ICS to plan, implement and evaluate consumer and carer participation.