Our Patient Advocacy Program

Where is breast cancer research taking us?

Join the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute’s Patient Advocacy Network on Thursday 15 October, 5.30–6.45pm at our institute in Heidelberg, VIC, for a free community event:

• Learn more about current and emerging treatments for breast cancer.

• Network with patient advocates and researchers.

• Hear from a patient advocate, clinician and researcher about how discoveries are translating into new possibilities for people affected by breast cancer.

To RSVP, email patientadvocacy@onjcri.org.au.

Our team knows that research is stronger when it is guided by the people it is meant to help.

If you have been affected by cancer as a patient, survivor, carer, or loved one, you have insights that matter.

Our patient advocates shape how we approach our research. You do not need any qualifications or previous experience. All that is required is a passion for change and a willingness to share your voice.

Everyone’s experience of cancer is different, and that’s exactly why your voice matters. If you are curious to learn more or to get involved and help shape breakthrough cancer research, we would love to hear from you.

Are you interested in becoming a patient advocate? Email us to register your interest:

What is a patient advocate?

A patient advocate is someone interested in using their voice and lived experience to help advance medical research.

Patient advocate requirements:

• Have experienced cancer themselves, or have experience as a carer or family member of a person with cancer,
• Be able to consider a broad range of cancer experiences and perspectives as well as their own,
• Be able to provide feedback to staff and be able to talk about cancer experiences (including their own),
• Be willing to undertake relevant training,
• Not be undergoing active treatment, and
• Be aged 18 years or older.

What kind of activities do patient advocates take part in?

Patient advocates will be invited to work directly with researchers to:

• Provide input into grants design and reporting,
• Take part in consultations, and
• Participate in focus groups and join committees to share their experience and perspectives,

with the aim of assisting researchers make more informed decisions about their work and how it is undertaken. You will be able to decide which kind of activities you take part in.

Will I be reimbursed for taking part?

Some roles will be reimbursed. This will be in the form of gift cards.

How will I be supported?

We are building the Patient Advocate Network, a community of people who can come together to support each other and share experiences. You will have access to the Patient Advocacy Network Coordinator, who will be able to provide you with guidance on relevant training opportunities.

Can the research staff I partner with give any advice on clinical care?

Our researchers are unable to give advice on any aspect of clinical care. You should speak to your treatment team for advice on your care.

Contact our team and become a patient advocate today: