Authors (including presenting author) :
Leung ST(1), Tsang SC(2), Chan WS(1), YU LME(2), Leung KYC(2)
Affiliation :
(1) Princess Margaret Hospital Patient Resource Centre (2) Kowloon West Cluster Community Health Care
Introduction :
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Hong Kong. A cancer diagnosis often brings anxiety and fear as patients confront the long-term challenges of treatment and rehabilitation. To connect hospital care with community support, Kowloon West Cluster Community Health Care (KWC CHC) partnered with a multi-disciplinary team from the hospital and two non-governmental organizations (NGOs) — Hong Kong Cancer Fund and H.K.S.K.H. Lady MacLehose Centre — to establish a new case orientation program for cancer patients and their families.
Objectives :
This program aims to ensure a smooth transition from hospital to community care by: - Equipping participants with information on available community support services through NGO partnerships - Encouraging proactive help-seeking behaviors - Empowering patients to maintain their health within the community
Methodology :
KWC CHC organized the new case orientation program monthly in a hybrid mode. This multidisciplinary program involved Kowloon West Cluster Cancer Case Managers, Clinical Psychologists, Medical Social Workers, Peer Volunteers, and two NGOs, providing cluster-based collaborative support for new cancer patients and caregivers. After each session, participants completed a self-administered questionnaire to provide feedback on the session's usefulness and the support received.
Result & Outcome :
In 2024, 958 participants attended the orientation programs, and 598 of them completed the questionnaire. Among those who responded, 89% found the sessions helpful for their recovery, and 90% valued the practical support provided by NGO social workers. Furthermore, 87% believed that participating in the sessions taught them how to proactively seek relevant assistance when needed. After the program, 143 participants requested referrals to the NGOs, all of whom received tailored support, including case management, consultations, counseling, and mutual support workshops. Overall, the program significantly enhanced the resources and support available to participants during their cancer journey.
This multi-disciplinary collaboration facilitated a smooth transition from hospital to community support for newly diagnosed cancer patients. It equipped participants with essential knowledge and resources, fostering community and encouraging proactive help-seeking behaviors. Positive feedback and successful referrals indicated that the initiative enhanced understanding of available assistance and empowered patients in their recovery. Looking ahead, the program can be expanded to benefit a wider audience, sustain comprehensive care and support for cancer patients in the community.
