The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer's (CPAC) pan-Canadian pilot on the OIN highlights the positive effect on patients

Executive Summary: 

The OIN's positive effects on patient cancer competence, support for autonomy and engagement is revealed in a pan-Canadian study at seven research centres.

Toronto, Canada – September 1, 2010 – The positive effects of the OIN have been revealed in a pan-Canadian study at seven research centres.

Funded by Health Canada through the Canadian Partnerships Against Cancer (CPAC), the study highlighted the positive effects the OIN had on patients' engagement, cancer competence and support for autonomy.

Both the Melanoma and Colorectal titles were piloted by the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal, Odette Cancer Centre and Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto, London Regional Cancer Program, Sudbury Regional Hospital, Cross Center Institute in Edmonton and Vancouver Island Cancer Centre in Victoria.

Key findings include higher levels of patient cancer knowledge and perceived cancer competence after six weeks of using the OIN, with participants saying the OIN was useful, clear and supportive.

In addition, patients who used the Colorectal title reported the more time they spent on it, the higher perceived support for autonomy, cancer competence and knowledge they had.

Most patients said the OIN was readily accessible, reliable and an important source of cancer information and support. The mixed design study found the OIN reduced distress, fears and anxiety and help them adjust to their situation by providing information on coping strategies and community resources.

President of Jack Digital Productions Murray Rochon said: “This was a very large study requiring much effort by all. Many thanks to all the centres who participated and for the forward-thinking support of CPAC.

“One of the great things that the researchers drew from this study was how the OIN met the very diverse information need of patients, family and friends. It underlines to me the importance of the individual person within the process of cancer care.

“I encourage readers to visit the link to learn more about this important study.”

CPAC strives to improve cancer control in Canada by being a catalyst for a coordinated approach. It aims to reduce cancer diagnoses, enhance patient quality of life and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the cancer control domain. It is transparent to the public, its partners and stakeholders, accountable to Canadians and Collaborative with experts around the world.

The OIN is the result of the work done by Jack Digital Productions and a multidisciplinary team of health professionals. Integrated within clinical care, it gives clinicians, educators, navigators and community care providers a comprehensive web-based program that enables patients to participate as active partners in their care and wellness.