Enhancing the experience of cancer patients through Volunteer Services

This study used an action research model to look at the non-medical needs of cancer patients during treatment and how services provided by volunteers met their needs. Examination focused on understanding the non-medical needs of cancer patients with themes emerging which grouped patient needs into the categories of emotional, informational and practical. Staff, volunteers and patients of the BC Cancer Agency explored how these needs were currently addressed and how they could be addressed in the future.;The goal was to determine if volunteers were enhancing the experience of patients and to establish guidelines for evidence-based practice in Volunteer Services. The study provided information on the positive benefits of volunteer services for patients. Opportunities exist to improve the patient experience at home and in accessing resource information.