Scope and impact of a First Nations cancer coordinator role: perspectives of multidisciplinary cancer staff

Purpose Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (hereafter respectfully referred to as First Nations) experience poorer cancer outcomes and higher mortality rates compared to non-Indigenous Australians. Barriers in accessing and engaging with cancer care services contribute significantly to these disparities. The First Nations Cancer Coordinator (FNCC) role offers a model that combines cultural and coordination support to improve the navigation of cancer services for First Nations people. This project sought to understand perceptions and impact of a pilot FNCC intervention on the care of First Nations patients, from the perspective of cancer care teams. Methods An exploratory, qualitative study was undertaken. The study was co-designed with a First Nations Community Advisory Group. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with ten non-Indigenous cancer staff who had worked alongside the FNCC to support First Nations patients with cancer and their families. Results Analysis revealed three overarching themes relating to the scope and impact of the FNCC role: 1) Integrating cultural wisdom in cancer care delivery; 2) Relationship building through dedicated time and presence; 3) Bridging cultures by facilitating two-way communication and trust between patients and healthcare providers. Conclusion The findings highlight the critical importance of FNCC roles in advocating for and enhancing cultural safety in cancer care, essential for addressing disparities and improving cancer outcomes for First Nations Australians.