The development and implementation of the After Cancer Treatment Transition (ACTT) Program for survivors of cancer

Abstract

Background: The After Cancer Treatment Transition (ACTT) program at Women’s College Hospital (Toronto) is a transitional follow-up program for patients, their families, and healthcare providers to address the broad range of post-cancer treatment and survivorship needs. This publication describes the systematic development and implementation of the ACTT program, with a focus on the advanced practice nursing (APN) role. Program Development: ACTT development required the collaboration of an APN, a general practitioner in oncology (GPO), and an inter-professional team. ACTT developers proposed a clinic structure in an ambulatory setting, linking healthcare professionals to provide post-treatment follow-up and ongoing survivorship care. Post-treatment guidelines were developed based on expert oncologist consensus, cancer site group input, and evidence-informed guidelines or best practice recommendations. Program Implementation: Initial challenges and concerns were rooted in the requirements that post-cancer treatment care was maintained and survivor needs were addressed. Cancer site groups and the inter-professional teams provided continuous feedback on processes and protocols. ACTT established a standard approach to transition patients safely and effectively out of tertiary care and, ultimately, to primary care. Current ACTT Program: ACTT delivers comprehensive post-treatment and survivorship care through close collaboration between the GPO and APN. Both roles specialize in managing late or persistent effects, cancer surveillance and prevention, and addressing psychosocial needs prior to discharge to primary care. The survivorship care plan provided by ACTT is an informative tool for both patient and primary care provider to continue post-treatment follow-ups. Future Directions: Next steps for ACTT include expanding to other cancer specialties, exploring new ways to deliver care, optimizing the transition of care, and conducting comprehensive evaluations of patient reported outcomes.