NAME:
Janene Shelton
WHERE DO YOU WORK?
Toowoomba Hospital, Darling Downs Health, Queensland
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT ROLE?
Cancer Care Coordinator for Cancer Services
WHAT LED YOU TO WORKING WITHIN THE AREA OF LUNG CANCER?
I commenced as an oncology registered nurse several years ago and was interested in the care coordinator roles and how vital the service is to our patients. I was particularly interested in the medical advances for lung cancer patients and now count myself very lucky that my portfolio includes management of lung cancer patients.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE?
I really enjoy the interaction with patients and the professional relationships that we build through this interaction. I especially love solving those tricky problems that patients often bring to the table! Hopefully our coordination of care ensures a more timely and seamless transition through the health care system for all our patients!
WHAT DO YOU FIND THE MOST CHALLENGING ABOUT YOUR ROLE?
We cover a large rural area within our health service so managing lung cancer symptoms and treatment of side effects with patients who live many hours away from a major hospital can be very challenging at times.
WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE FIELD OF LUNG CANCER?
Communication is always the key. Building a good rapport and ensuring patients feel comfortable contacting you with any concerns can lead to early management of symptoms and preventable hospital admissions.
WHAT HOBBIES / ACTIVITIES DO YOU ENJOY OUTSIDE OF WORK?
I like to keep active by running and going to the gym. I am also a mum of 3 and love watching my kids excel at their chosen sports or endeavours!