Bridging the gap from the oncology setting to community care through a cross-Canada environmental scan

• Main Author: Danielle M. Wittal
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Pappin Communications 2018-01-01
• Series: Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal
• Online Access: http://canadianoncologynursingjournal.com/index.php/conj/article/view/870

Due to the growing number of cancer survivors, there is a need to evaluate the provision of follow-up care to ensure the needs of patients are met. An environmental scan was conducted provincially and nationally, which aimed to gain a broader understanding of survivorship care, highlight any trends, and report disparities in care during the transition from the oncology to the community setting. The environmental scan involved gathering data from nine out of 10 provinces through telephone interviews, seeking relevant documentation, and identifying areas of good practice. There was a wide variation in practice across the provinces and some recommendations for improving care are made. Findings emphasize the need to promote increased patient self-management and self-advocacy. Implications from the study are that cancer survivorship is a complex topic that requires communication and coordination across services to ensure a seamless transition.