The contribution of wellness centres to cancer care: patient and carer perspectives

Background: Dedicated centres providing information and support to cancer patients and carers have recently been established in some Australian cancer centres. Aim: The purpose of this research was to identify the preferences of patients and carers in relation to the environment and activities offered in a wellness centre in a regional community. Methods: A survey of current and previous patients and carers was conducted at a wellness centre in a regional area. Findings: A total of 188 people responded to the survey. The wellness centre's environment was important to respondents, with features such as comfortable chairs, lounge and kitchen areas and the availability of hot drinks each receiving mean scores of more than 8.3 out of 10. Most respondents reported that they would be likely to read newspapers, magazines and information about cancer (mean scores greater than 7.2) and attend information sessions on topics, such as staying well with cancer and nutrition (mean scores greater than 6.5). Most preferred to visit the wellness centre around the time of an appointment (51.1%). The main barriers to visiting were parking (71.5%) and feeling unwell (35.8%). Approximately one quarter of participants reported they did not wish to attend to the wellness centre for an activity or support. Discussion: Patients and carers valued the relaxing environment of the wellness centre and more ‘traditional’ forms of supportive care, such as information sessions, rather than group activities. The wellness centre was important to carers as well as patients. Conclusion: This study outlines the preferences of regional cancer patients and their carers and could inform establishment of wellness centres in other health settings.