CAPO conference: improving the patient experience

The 2013 Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology (CAPO) conference in Ottawa brought together more than 250 forward- thinking interdisciplinary professionals of psychosocial oncology to share ideas and knowledge. The goal: to improve care for people with cancer and their families.

The Jack Digital Productions (JDP) team was inspired by the expertise, dedication and tireless efforts of all those working hard to transform the entire spectrum of cancer care.

Recent advancements in psychosocial oncology were highlighted in a number of symposiums and workshops over the three-day conference, including the benefit of virtual navigation.

As the primary virtual navigation tool available in Canada, JDP’s Oncology Interactive Navigator (OIN) was featured. Ultimately its scope can have the greatest impact on: perceived cancer competence, patient-provider communication, and health care service use.

Throughout the rest of the conference, the JDP team attended a variety of symposiums to learn about the most recent concerns and revelations in cancer care. Topics ranged from screening for distress to improving healthcare guidelines.

“It was really helpful to speak with researchers and clinicians at CAPO this year,” said Elizabeth Lye, Content Lead at JDP. “We’ve learned a lot from each other about what’s important and where more change is needed in cancer care.

“In line with the many issues discussed at CAPO, we’re going to continue working together to improve the patient experience.”