UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Objective:Access to cancer treatment, care, & support is usually limited or non-existent for vulnerable patient populations in low resource communities. The Max Foundation (TMF), an internationally focused cancer organization improves the lives and survival of people living with blood cancer by facilitating access to three integrated essentials: therapeutic treatment, medical care, and psychosocial support.

Methods:The three essentials are mobilized in a collaborative model which employs local knowledge, and pair technology with practical outreach approaches. When medical communities, pharmaceutical donors, governments and NGO's join forces, patients' outcomes are improved by making treatment available. However, access to the treatment alone is insufficient. An effective and sustainable model must also include deep understanding of the local, cultural, religious, and social milieu integrated with medical care and psychosocial support The model is operationalized via collaborations with more than 800 physicians, and 20 locally-based care and support specialists who are supported with continuing education and a web-based software application tracking patients' specific treatment and resource needs. Patients are reached through educational sessions in clinic waiting rooms, clinic bulletin boards, volunteer phone trees, and individual consultations.

Results:More than 13,500 people with blood related cancer in low resource communities have been reached since 1997 following this integrated model. Anecdotal data shows that providing psychosocial and practical support services and access to treatment improves compliance and quality of life. Finally, blending appropriate technologies and high tech tools enhances outreach to patients and the ability of care providers to have the best resources at hand to effectively support patients.