Pushing the possibilities: consumers and health professionals co-design web videos on breast cancer — ASN Events

Pushing the possibilities: consumers and health professionals co-design web videos on breast cancer (#835)

Chris Walsh 1 , Rowena Mortimer 2 , Sue Ellis 1
  1. Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition, Levin, New Zealand
  2. Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition, Auckland, New Zealand

Purpose: This paper describes the collaborative approach between consumers and health professionals to produce web-based videos designed to support those affected by breast cancer.  This project demonstrates the success of using the combined talents and experience of consumers and health professionals to co-design appropriate supportive information and resources. Data sources: Narratives from fourteen women, one man, four family members and five health professionals form the basis of these videos.  Initial drafts of the videos were reviewed by health professionals for accuracy. This review was critical to the quality of the web videos because balance was needed between the evidence based practice of health professionals and the experiences of those with breast cancer. Findings: The professionally produced and edited web videos feature a range of identified themes. Specifically, the psychosocial impact of breast cancer is explored in the themes; family supports, relationship with partners, help getting through and life after breast cancer.  Whilst consumers acknowledge the key role health professionals have in guiding them through their breast cancer journey they also value highly the support from family, friends and others who have been down the same path.  Conclusion: The practice of health professionals is interwoven with experiences of breast cancer patients.  The possibilities aspired to have achieved a “first” in cancer supportive care in New Zealand.  To date, feedback from the web videos supports the ideology of a consumer/professional interface in the provision of supportive cancer care.