Lessons Learned from the Implementation of a Person-Centred Digital Health Platform in Cancer Care

Area of Science:

• Digital health implementation in oncology
• Interprofessional collaboration in healthcare

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital health adoption, particularly in cancer care.
• Integrating digital health platforms into clinical settings necessitates strategic planning and collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a person-centred cancer navigation digital health platform (BELONG) within a specific healthcare network (CIUSSS du Centre-Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal).
• To customize content and features for cancer patients and caregivers treated at the institution.
• To explore implementation processes guided by the Structural Model of Interprofessional Collaboration.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative implementation project involving diverse stakeholders: clinicians, administrators, researchers, and patient representatives.
• Utilized the Structural Model of Interprofessional Collaboration to guide the process.
• Emphasized virtual communication and patient/caregiver engagement throughout.

Main Results:

• Successful integration of a tailored digital cancer support platform.
• Key lessons learned include the importance of early identification of shared goals and clear expectations.
• Consistent use of virtual communication and deep patient/caregiver involvement were crucial for informed decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Effective implementation of digital health in cancer care relies on robust interprofessional collaboration.
• Patient and caregiver engagement is vital for successful adoption and shared decision-making.
• This project demonstrates a model for integrating specialized digital health tools into routine cancer care.