Embedding cultural safety in health services means Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to access health services, and as a result, experience better cancer outcomes.[166] Building on Action 6.2.2 Strengthen collaboration with service providers, regulatory authorities and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer workforce to establish clear accountability for culturally safe care and compliance with national standards, a strong evidence base is required to assess and monitor the experiences, effectiveness, and appropriateness of cancer-related services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to ensure national efforts appropriately address disparities and improve cancer outcomes.
This 5-year action involves embedding the implementation of nationally consistent strategies. Such strategies could identify areas of excellence and service gaps; embed culturally safe, trauma-aware, healing-informed capabilities in the workforce development; and inform opportunities to improve patient experience across the cancer system. It is vital that these strategies are co-designed with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led where possible, and address the behaviours, attitudes, policies, structures, and environmental aspects of designing and delivering cancer-related services.
This 5-year action may include:
This action is addressed through the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2021–2031[160] through Priority 3: Workforce, and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workforce Strategic Framework and Implementation Plan 2021–2031.[133]