Cancer diaries give patients power and knowledge

Cancer patients will now be able to keep a closer track of their personal treatment with the use of a special journal.

Those diagnosed with cancer will now be offered a copy of the Patient Held Record, which has been jointly developed by Capital & Coast DHB Wellington Blood and Cancer Centre and the Wellington Division of the Cancer Society, and is supported by the Wellington Hospitals & Health Foundation.

Patients will be encouraged to use the journal, which provides information on common tests and treatments, and gives an opportunity for patients to keep their own record of all their appointments, tests, medications and treatment.

It does not replace the patient’s official health records held by their primary practitioner and hospital-based specialists, but rather assists them in understanding and keeping up with everything that is happening in their care.

The journal has been designed to provide space for patients to jot down any questions they have, how they are feeling, side effects experienced during treatment and new or changing medications.

The patient’s GP, cancer specialists, family and any other caregivers can also add information to the journal, and the handy A5 booklet form means patients can keep the notes of all their care in one place.

The journal will not only be useful for the patient, but also to all those who take part in their care – particularly family and friends.

Charge Nurse Manager of the Wellington Blood and Cancer Centre, Paul Smith said the journal was another way of supporting patients and their families.

“A diagnosis of cancer can be not only hugely traumatic for a patient and their family, it can also lead to many questions and concerns. We are really hoping this record will help patients develop a greater understanding of their care and also play an active role in it,” Paul says.

“It’s hoped that by increasing a patient’s knowledge about their cancer and its treatment, this can reduce fear and allow them to retain some control over their lives.”