FK-KMK UGM. The prevalence of cancer in Indonesia continues to rise. Data from Globocan released by WHO shows that in 2018 there were 18.1 million cancer cases with 9.6 million deaths. In 2020, Indonesia recorded 396,914 new cases and 234,511 deaths due to cancer. Globocan estimates that global cancer deaths will increase to 13.1 million by 2030. Cancer management in Indonesia faces various challenges, including long queues, poor communication, long waiting times, complex administration, distrust in healthcare professionals, and lack of empathy. The Cancer Patient Navigation (NAPAK) program aims to address these issues.
As part of its active contribution to tackling the prevalence of cancer in Indonesia, the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FK-KMK) UGM is involved in the implementation of NAPAK by organizing the NAPAK workshop on Friday, June 21, 2024, at the Tahir Foundation Postgraduate Building, FK-KMK UGM. This NAPAK workshop marks the beginning of the collaboration with FK-KMK UGM. In the future, FK-KMK UGM will adopt and implement the NAPAK program through formal education in the Master’s Program in Nursing Studies at FK-KMK UGM, incorporating NAPAK competencies and training at hospitals. The workshop was attended by the Directorate General of Health Personnel, Directorate of Health Personnel Quality Improvement, Bureau of Organization and HR of the Ministry of Health, PPNI, HIMPONI, and a network of hospitals.
Cancer Patient Navigation (NAPAK) or Cancer Patient Navigator (CPN) is a program aimed at improving cancer management outcomes through clinical care coordination, clinical management, funding, accommodation, follow-up counseling, and follow-up care. This program has proven effective in ensuring patients receive timely diagnosis and therapy, increasing early-stage case detection, and improving five-year survival rates. In Indonesia, the program was initiated by the Dharmais National Cancer Center, Tata Memorial Center Mumbai, and Roche Indonesia, with full support from the Ministry of Health.
Dean of FK-KMK UGM, Prof. Dr. Yodi Mahendradhata, M.Sc, Ph.D., FRSPH, stated that the NAPAK workshop, as well as the initial step of adopting and implementing NAPAK at FK-KMK UGM, aims to discuss the adoption and implementation model of the Cancer Patient Navigation (NAPAK) role to maximize benefits for patients, healthcare workers, and hospital management. The success of this model depends on the agreement and support of all stakeholders involved.
He added that with this workshop, the adoption and implementation model of the NAPAK role in hospitals could be agreed upon with clear organizational structure, duties, and recognition. Additionally, FK-KMK hopes this workshop can gather regulatory support related to functional positions accommodating the NAPAK role, making it easier for all parties.
A representative from RSUP Dr. Sardjito also expressed commitment to implementing NAPAK. “Every day, 3,000-3,500 patients visit our polyclinics and service units. About 1,500 of them are cancer patients. To maximize service quality, we project many programs and policies, especially related to integrated clinical guidelines. From these programs, we prioritize high-volume ones like NAPAK. We hope that NAPAK guidelines can be expanded nationally, especially regarding clinical practice. RSUP Dr. Sardjito is ready to support NAPAK not only ceremonially but also to optimize the impact, providing tangible benefits to the community.”
This workshop aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goal 3 on good health and well-being and goal 4 on quality education for sustainable development. Through the Cancer Patient Navigation (NAPAK) program, this workshop aims to improve cancer management outcomes, ensure better access to timely and quality healthcare, and increase patient satisfaction. Additionally, the workshop emphasizes the importance of education and training for healthcare workers, enabling them to provide better and sustainable services. Thus, this workshop contributes not only to improving public health but also to developing the capacity and competence of healthcare workers, supporting both SDGs. (Assyifa/Reporter)
