Insight

The Christie Launched Training Program for Supportive Oncology Doctors

boostprosystems.com

Jan 18, 2025, 14:10

The Christie Launched Training Program for Supportive Oncology Doctors

The Christie in Manchester has introduced a training program aimed at creating a new generation of cancer care doctors specializing in supportive oncology.

Training Program

The program, which is the first of its kind globally, focuses on developing a new service to support cancer survivors facing complex health challenges caused by cancer itself and the long-term effects of its treatments.

This initiative aims to significantly improve the quality of life for the increasing number of patients living with cancer for extended periods.

The supportive oncology service at The Christie, which currently supports around 2,000 patients annually, is designed to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.

It combines various support services, including psychological support, pain and symptom management, medication optimization, occupational therapy, and end-of-life care.

This holistic approach addresses the many challenges cancer survivors face, such as long-term side effects from treatments, financial concerns, and psychosocial issues, offering crucial help in managing their ongoing needs.

The fellows selected for the program will undergo an intensive 12-month training, divided into three rotational placements.

These placements will cover key areas of oncology, including acute oncology (dealing with cancer-related emergencies), supportive care, and psychological medicine.

Fellows will gain hands-on experience in managing treatment side effects, complex pain management, and providing holistic care for survivors, while also dedicating around 20% of their time to research projects aimed at advancing the field.

This approach ensures they are well-equipped to address the growing demand for specialized care among cancer survivors.

This fellowship program is part of a national pilot designed to develop core competencies in supportive oncology. The program has attracted interest from other cancer centers in the UK, with several looking to recruit additional doctors to follow the new curriculum.

The Christie, alongside its collaborators, aims to set an international standard for supportive oncology, helping to improve patient care worldwide. As the number of cancer survivors continues to rise, this initiative is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of cancer care.