WCMICS have developed a register of Consumers who provide an important and sometimes unique perspective on cancer care in our region. Individuals listed on the WCMICS Consumer Register provide feedback on projects to ensure cancer services are patient-centred and open to feedback. Consumers are encouraged and supported as partners who shape the cancer services the community receives.

Some of the ways in which consumers assist in cancer service improvement is though:

• participating in project steering or committee meetings
• attending focus groups or completing patient surveys
• contributing to new service development activities
• reviewing patient information such as brochures or internet resources.

• Poster - Consumer Participation

The role is voluntary and consumers negotiate their involvement according to their level of interest and availability. Reimbursement is provided for car parking, childcare and/or travel costs. Our consumers choose their preference for participating either face-to-face, by telephone, post or through email contact. An orientation session and ongoing support from a designated member of staff is provided. External consumer training opportunities arise from time to time.

Consumer Participation Strategy 2010-2012
The WCMICS embraces consumer participation as a principle integral to its structure, core functions and service improvement initiatives. This strategy describes how WCMICS will deliver Consumer Participation as an integral part of the WCMICS program to ensure that Consumer Participation is a reality in cancer care. Click here to view WCMICS Consumer Participation Strategy 2010-2012.

• Department of Health Consumer Report May 2010
• WCMICS Consumer Participation Strategy 2007-2009.

If you are interested in becoming a Consumer Representative for WCMICS, click here to view the flyer. Contact Nyree Dillon on (03) 9656 2788 or email nyree.dillon@wcmics.org for more information.