Dedicated nurse for Taranaki cancer patients

21 August 2012

Taranaki cancer patients will have a dedicated cancer coordination nurse to support and guide them throughout their treatment, thanks to this Government’s commitment to provide better and faster cancer services.

“We are investing $16 million over four years so every district health board (DHB) will have at least one full time cancer coordination nurse, with some large DHBs employing up to four nurses,” says Health Minister Tony Ryall.

“Taranaki DHB will receive $384,000 over the next four years for the cancer coordination nurse initiative.

“Cancer patients can come into contact with up to 28 doctors and even more nurses during their treatment, sometimes from more than one district health board. This can be extremely stressful and confusing.

“These specialist nurses will act as a single point of contact so patients and their families no longer have to contact multiple people from different parts of the health service to find out about their care,” says Mr Ryall.

“Better care coordination means patients will receive a more personalised service, reduce delays and have a less stressful experience.

“By working closely with patients, the nurses will also have an important role in identifying areas in their DHB where further improvements can be made.

It is expected the 40 cancer coordination nurses will be working in district health boards throughout the country by the end of the year.

This National Government initiative was announced in Budget 2012 as part of a funding $33 million package aimed at further improving cancer services.

Taranaki DHB is excited about the benefits a dedicated nurse will have on this patient group. Clinical Services Manager Gillian Campbell said, "we are working with the national and central cancer networks to ensure a co-ordinated approach to the implementation of these nursing roles".

Taranaki DHB media contact:
Sue Carrington
021 367 789

Ministry of Health media contact:
Jackie Maher
021 243 7803 or

Jannel Carter
027 589 8884

Hon Tony Ryall
Minister of Health

Last updated: Thursday, August 23, 2012