The CAnadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT): A Multi-Phase Program Overview

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychiatry
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Demoralization syndrome and psychosocial distress are significant challenges for Canadians with advanced cancer.
• Existing supportive care models often fail to adequately address these complex needs.
• Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) shows promise for improving quality of life in palliative care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish the Canadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT) to address gaps in supportive cancer care.
• To develop a national network for research, training, and policy development in PAT for cancer patients.
• To prepare Canada's oncology healthcare system for the potential implementation of PAT.

Main Methods:

• CAN-PACT's strategy involves environmental scans, stakeholder engagement, and developing interdisciplinary networks.
• The program includes developing training and education for clinicians, researchers, and patients.
• A multi-center, randomized controlled trial of PAT for advanced cancer patients is planned, alongside feasibility pilot testing.

Main Results:

• The network aims to set research priorities through structured stakeholder engagement.
• CAN-PACT will pilot test intervention and assessment procedures for feasibility.
• A multi-center randomized controlled trial will assess the efficacy of PAT for advanced cancer patients.

Conclusions:

• CAN-PACT aims to enable equitable access to safe, evidence-based PAT for advanced cancer patients in Canada.
• The network will build capacity and generate Canadian evidence to support PAT implementation.
• Collaboration with policymakers is key to influencing healthcare policy on PAT in Canada.