Background to the Melanoma Network
In 2002, clinicians associated with the Sydney Melanoma Unit approached the then NSW Health minister with concerns about aspects of the quality of melanoma care around NSW. The clinicians proposed the establishment of a Melanoma Network to address:
- Best practice for the delivery of all melanoma patient care
- Standardised treatment protocols
- Development and maintenance of national and international standards and guidelines
- Evidence based medicine and comprehensive outcomes assessment
- Case management
- Specialist services – better utilisation of existing expertise
- Reduced waiting periods for advanced cases
- Cost efficiency for health budget
- Education and resources available statewide, including remote rural sites
- Cohesive and collaborative approach to clinical care and research
- Awareness of current clinical trials
- Public education and awareness through the development of preventative programs
The Minister’s Office of NSW Health provided a grant for 4.5 years to The Melanoma Foundation at the University of Sydney to establish the Melanoma Network. The grant now sits within the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Sydney.
In 2006 background papers were commissioned to provide guidance on how to develop a Melanoma Network. Late 2006, a staff member was employed to assist in the development of the Network. In 2007 a Steering Committee was assembled to establish the structure and governance of the Network. The Network’s Management Committee and Advisory Board both met for the first time in 2007.
