THE effect cancer treatment has on a patient’s appearance only adds to the stress of an already daunting experience.
It is for this reason patient care often focuses on promoting a positive body image as well as the standard practice of keeping the person’s physical health in check.
Joondalup Health Campus was recently recognised as a leader in the field, becoming the first WA hospital to win the Look Good Feel Better National Venue of the Year award.
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The hospital’s oncology unit was acknowledged ahead of 180 other health centres.
Look Good Feel Better (LGFB) is a free community service run by the Cancer Patients Foundation, helping people to cope with the side effects of treatment.
It focuses on women, men and teenagers, showing them such appearance remedies as headwear styles, make-up techniques and skin care methods.
JHC’s strong support of the initiative earned it praise from LGFB national manager Carol Kavurma.
“The team at Joondalup Health Campus have an absolute belief in the positive impact that our program has on their patients and consistently take a proactive approach to ensure their patients are aware of the support LGFB can offer,” she said.
JHC oncology registered nurse Yvonne Parson, who travelled to Sydney to accept the award with colleague Jill Fitzpatrick, said it had been a morale booster for the staff.
“We were surprised and delighted to win,” she said. “Our staff do work incredibly hard to help patients in every way so this award really does mean a lot to them.” Visit www. lgfb.org.au or call 1800 650 960.