Consumer (patient) participation at all levels of health care has been shown to make a positive contribution to improving health outcomes, and it is fundamental to have consumers as representatives in cancer control activities.

The Northern Cancer Network recognised the need for a 'consumer voice' to advocate for services that better meet the needs of people with cancer, and their family/whanau, including using personal experiences, or those of others to illustrate service gaps or opportunities for improvement across the cancer continuum. To this end, in 2008 the Northern Cancer Network Consumer Reference Group was established.  The group ensures consumer perspectives and input into the work of the Northern Cancer Network, including project work at all stages of the cancer patient's journey, (from diagnosis of cancer through to supportive care after treatment).  Representatives also provide an important consumer view on service delivery within the current health system.

The value of the group has already been demonstrated through members' participation in the Care Coordination Project (including the development of the Care Coordination Model) and a number of other activities the Network has undertaken.

In order for the group to be effective, it is essential that members have either had personal or 'lived' experience of cancer, or have provided support and/or unpaid care as a family/whanau member or close support person to someone experiencing cancer.

The group welcomes interest from people who fit this criteria and who are interested in helping make a difference to cancer care in the Northern Region.

Further information on the role description and the level of involvement of members, is available on the Expression of Interest form.  If you feel you fit the criteria and would like to join the group, we would welcome your interest.  Please complete this form and return to us.    If you would like further information on the group, please contact:  Petrina Francis, Northern Cancer Network, 09 589 3937 or email petrina.francis@ndsa.co.nz.

Meeting frequency: The group meets quarterly and meeting dates for 2012 are:  9 February | 10 May | 9 August | 8 November

Current Members:

Rowena Mortimer
Deborah Dalliessi
Kelvin Twist
Nic Russell
Janine Everall
Grant Hall
Grant Coupland

Terms of Reference: Click here to view the terms of reference.