Northern Health is enhancing access to cancer-focused clinical trials, particularly for locals from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
CALD patients regularly encounter obstacles such as language barriers and cultural differences, which often restricts their participation in such trials, and therefore possible effective treatment.
With the support of a North Eastern Melbourne Integrated Cancer Services (NEMICS) Service Improvement Grant and a TrialHub grant, Northern Health is launching an initiative aimed at expanding local access to clinical trails for the CALD community within its catchment.
The project, shaped by valuable feedback from consumers, clinical staff, and Transcultural and Language Services (TALS) staff, will focus on developing new tools and support systems to facilitate improved engagement for CALD patients in the trials.
For patients, it will enhance their access to cancer clinical trials, ensuring that CALD communities have the same opportunities and care as others. Patients will experience greater support and understanding throughout their treatment journey.
For healthcare staff, the project will deliver new tools, resources, and training, enhancing their ability to engage effectively with CALD patients.
This will create improved cultural competency and communication, ultimately leading to better patient care and stronger trust between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.
The Cancer Clinical Trials team at Northern Health is a collaborative effort, bringing together specialists from haematology, oncology, pharmacy, research, interpreting, and members of the CALD community.
Sharni Norouzi, a scientist on the team, emphasised the mission of the trials.
“Our goal is to ensure that every patient, regardless of background, has equal access to the opportunities and benefits that clinical trials offer for cancer treatment,” she said.
Greek Interpreter Kostas Karamarkos said participating in the project meant that language support went beyond mere translation and interpretation.
“It ensures that patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care decisions,” he said.
