Achievements against Priority Initiatives
NORTHERN SYDNEY CANCER CENTRE, ROYAL NORTH SHORE HOSPITAL INSPIRE-RT: Breaking Language Barriers in Cancer Care
At the Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, a simple idea has transformed the experience of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT). The INSPIRE-RT (Inspire Radiation Therapy) mobile app was developed to ensure CALD patients can access the same high-quality care as English-speaking patients— by delivering radiation therapy instructions in their own language. Breath-hold techniques are used during radiation therapy to protect the heart and lungs. But for many CALD patients, language barriers made these techniques difficult to explain and often inaccessible. Recognising this gap, the Radiation Oncology team partnered with a patient consumer representative to co-design a solution that would be inclusive, respectful, and effective. The app provides education and real-time coaching in six commonly spoken languages across the district, including Mandarin, Arabic, and Vietnamese. It integrates with in-room audio systems, allowing radiation therapists to guide patients through treatment in a language they understand. The results and impact on patient experience have been transformative: • 100% of CALD patients have completed breath- hold treatment by using the app —up from 0% previously. • Treatment times have halved , and interpreter time has been reduced by 2 hours per patient, saving over $11,000 annually. • Patients report feeling safer, more respected, and better prepared . One patient shared: Being spoken to in my language made me feel respected and safe.”
INSPIRE -RT project team, Northern Sydney Cancer Centre
The use of the INSPIRE-RT mobile app is now embedded in routine care at Northern Sydney Cancer Centre, Royal North Shore Hospital and is being adopted by other hospitals across Sydney.
FINALIST
In recognition of its impact, INSPIRE-RT was a finalist in the 2025 NSW Health Awards for Excellence in Multicultural Healthcare . A video showcasing the project can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/1096130128
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