The journey through breast cancer treatment doesn’t finish with the final chemotherapy session or radiation appointment. For women aged 65 and older, navigating the post-treatment phase – often involving ongoing endocrine therapy – can be particularly challenging. Fragmented care, persistent side effects, and adherence to long-term medication regimens are significant hurdles. Now, a new research initiative led by Dr. Marie-Pascale Pomey aims to address these issues by developing and testing an integrated care model designed to empower patients and improve their quality of life.
Improving the transition of care after breast cancer treatment is a critical area of focus in oncology. Many older adults experience a disconnect between specialist cancer care and their primary care physicians, leading to a lack of coordinated support for managing long-term effects and overall health. This research seeks to bridge that gap, focusing on a patient-centered approach that prioritizes individual needs and fosters stronger communication between healthcare providers. The goal is to create a more seamless and supportive experience for women navigating life after a breast cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Marie-Pascale Pomey, a full professor in the Department of Health Management, Evaluation and Policy at the Université de Montréal School of Public Health (ESPUM), is spearheading this effort. Her expertise lies in patient engagement and transforming healthcare systems to better serve individuals. According to her profile on the CHUM Research Centre website, Dr. Pomey has been a principal clinical research scientist since March 2017, supported by the CHUM, the Fonds de recherche du Québec, and the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux. CHUM
The three-year project, dubbed PRIME-OncoTBC, will focus on women 65 and older undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy following breast cancer treatment. This type of therapy, often used to prevent recurrence, can have significant side effects that impact quality of life. Dr. Pomey and her team will employ a participatory action research approach, meaning patients will be actively involved in every stage of the project – from design to testing – ensuring the resulting model truly reflects their needs and preferences. This collaborative approach combines quantitative and qualitative research methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the current system.
Empowering Patients Through Collaboration
A core principle of the PRIME-OncoTBC project is patient empowerment. The research team aims to not only improve coordination between oncology services and primary care but also to equip patients with the knowledge and resources they need to actively participate in their own care. This includes addressing challenges related to persistent side effects, ensuring adherence to long-term treatment plans, and promoting overall well-being. Dr. Pomey’s work, as highlighted by the Chaire de recherche du Canada sur la culture, centers on engaging citizens and patients in the transformation of healthcare organizations.
A Multi-Faceted Research Approach
Dr. Pomey’s research program is built around three complementary axes. First, she analyzes the role of new health technologies in shaping the relationship between healthcare professionals and patients. Second, she co-creates interventions with patients and their families to better address their needs across all levels of the healthcare system. Finally, she develops tools to measure, support, and sustain patient engagement. This holistic approach ensures that the PRIME-OncoTBC project is grounded in both rigorous research and a deep understanding of the patient experience.
The project’s anticipated outcomes include concrete, transferable recommendations for health policies and the implementation of integrated post-treatment care models. These models will prioritize equity, quality of life, and genuine partnership with patients. The research team hopes to create a system where older women receiving endocrine therapy feel supported, informed, and empowered to manage their health effectively.
Looking ahead, the findings from PRIME-OncoTBC have the potential to significantly impact the way post-treatment care is delivered to older breast cancer survivors. By prioritizing patient engagement and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, this research offers a promising path towards a more equitable and patient-centered healthcare system. The team plans to disseminate their findings through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences.
What are your thoughts on improving post-treatment care for breast cancer survivors? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.