The ACCC’s 41st National Oncology Conference showcased wellness initiatives that elevate patient engagement and staff well-being in cancer care. Highlighted were Fox Chase Cancer Center’s “Just in Time” health literacy program and Northwell Health’s revamped staff wellness initiatives, both aiming to enhance the overall experience for oncology patients and providers through personalized approaches and ongoing support.
The 41st National Oncology Conference (NOC) convened by the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) on October 9, 2024, spotlighted innovative wellness initiatives aimed at transforming patient engagement in oncology care. The conference’s poster exhibit highlighted a plethora of challenging yet vital themes ranging from financial toxicity to the integration of artificial intelligence, but it was the topic of wellness that resonated deeply through several presentations. In particular, two posters illuminated the pressing need for enhanced health literacy and how innovative programs can address the unique healthcare needs of oncology patients and their care providers. The Fox Chase Cancer Center presented the “Just in Time” health literacy program, focusing on personalizing patient communication. With every initial consultation acting as a catalyst for a flood of emails, texts, and informational resources, the challenge arises: How can we ensure that patients remain engaged rather than overwhelmed? Daniella Landau, who co-authored the study, highlighted that the influx of information often resulted in disengagement. “Our philosophy is: bite-sized,” Landau pointed out, advocating for shorter, more accessible materials that cater to diverse patient backgrounds. Landau stressed the importance of tailoring education efforts to accommodate various demographic needs, emphasizing that outdated information has no place in an ever-evolving field like oncology. “In oncology, every 2-3 years things progress, so you can’t use a 10-year-old video or print out, or binder,” she explained, urging for continuous adaptation and the validation of patient feedback to identify care gaps. On a different front, Natalya Kusheleva from Northwell Health Staten Island University Hospital could not agree more about the vitality of staff wellness. She noted that an empowered and engaged staff translates directly to enhanced care for patients. In addressing low participation rates in staff wellness programs, Kusheleva and her team initiated focus groups that unveiled critical barriers such as lack of awareness and time constraints. Thus, they reimagined wellness initiatives, integrating them seamlessly into the work routine. Mindfulness practices, recognition days, and even massages were introduced, ensuring that staff could experience support during their demanding days. The results were astonishing. Participation surged among staff, climbing from under 50 to more than 300 individuals. Patients equally benefited from these initiatives, finding their stress levels in palliative care reduced by a remarkable 77%. Kusheleva concluded, “It’s definitely improved patient engagement and compliance,” noting how the holistic approach has allowed patients to feel valued as complete individuals interacting with healthcare systems. As Northwell Health looks towards the future, they plan to incorporate stress management tools that assess and enhance both patient well-being and clinical outcomes.
The integration of wellness initiatives in oncology is becoming increasingly crucial as the healthcare landscape evolves. Patients undergoing cancer treatment often face overwhelming challenges that are compounded by the complexities of understanding their health information. Additionally, the well-being of healthcare staff is intrinsically linked to patient care quality, as burnout and stress can significantly hinder the delivery of services. Recent discussions at the ACCC’s National Oncology Conference highlighted these themes, showcasing programs designed to promote better health literacy for patients and enhanced wellness support for oncology staff. With a focus on personalized communication and engagement strategies, these initiatives strive to create a more holistic, patient-centered care environment.
The ACCC’s NOC illuminated the powerful intersection of patient engagement and staff well-being in oncology care. Through tailored communication strategies and innovative wellness programs, cancer care centers are making strides towards fostering a supportive environment for both patients and their providers. By actively addressing the unique needs of diverse patient demographics and investing in staff wellness, healthcare facilities are not only improving care delivery but also nurturing a culture of compassion and understanding in the face of the challenges that accompany cancer treatment.
Original Source: www.ajmc.com
