10 - THE PARTNERSHIP - Composed of 250 organizations and individuals working together to increase the early detection of breast cancer.
10.1 Assess community resources and develop information booklets to distribute to patients through providers and community organizations.
Ensure highest quality patient care by:
Providing information and opportunities on related continuing education Supplying clinical updates on related topics Presenting breast health education to providers by well respected local physicians Establishing clear concise guidelines and protocols for practitioners Sensitizing providers to incorporate client's psychosocial and emotional needs into the overall treatment plan
10.2 Utilize specially trained staff from community agencies to provide advocacy and patient follow-up.
10.3 Provide adequate and ongoing staff training on intake, eligibility and community resources, with particular emphasis on cultural sensitivity, positive attitude, and facilitating client access to other appointments and resources .
10.4 Develop correctly translated books, videos, and materials relating to diagnosis, treatment, nutrition, survival, psychological support and death, utilizing patient testimonials when possible. Include low literacy versions.
10.5 Expand pool of providers in the recruitment community by engaging in personal contact and follow-up, providing accessible technical support, and assisting in expediting efficient reimbursement. Recruit retired medical personnel for volunteer services as patient guides, translators and for tracking client follow-up. A personal interest in cancer issues is desirable.
10.6 Access funds, including mini-grants, to provide funds for transportation, eligibility gaps, post diagnosis issues and pap smears.
10.7 Create streamlined tools for assessment of qualitative and quantitative data, especially outcomes. Make results available to providers and CQI (Continuous Quality Improvement) committee for members continuing review and improvement of the system. 10.8 Schedule the Mammo-Van visits to fixed locations on a regular, rotating pre-publicized basis, ideally tied into a site where gynecological exams can also be performed. Allow time for clientele to build.