Empowering Patients to Optimize Breast Cancer Management (EPOBCM)

A Quebec-Based Patient-Led Clinical Trial

This pilot trial collects real-time data directly from patients across their cancer journey — from diagnosis to survivorship — to identify obstacles and help improve care systems across the province.

Local Projects That Make a Difference

Through its Regional Mission, VMOF develops and supports initiatives that improve the patient experience across Quebec — with a focus on timely diagnosis, care coordination, and empowering patients throughout their breast cancer journey.

Improving Breast Cancer Care

To meet its Local & Regional Mission since launching, the VMOF has been, and still is, involved with several specific and pertinent activities primarily to improve breast cancer care in the out of hospital Ambulatory Breast Center (ABC) model, including the following:

Psychological Recovery Support for Newly Diagnosed Patients

Supporting on-site VM Group Recovery meetings directed by a designated psychologist, psychotherapist or stress management coach for newly diagnosed patients to better cope with, and alleviate, stress and anxiety.

Breast Cancer Conferences for Providers and Patients

Supporting Breast Cancer Conferences with local and international speakers, reviewing the latest concepts in breast cancer prevention, early detection, personalized treatment and Survivorship for both breast cancer Health Providers and their patients.

Weekly Oncology Pathology Conferences (VMOP) and Multidisciplinary Review

Providing funding to support the required on-site projection and off-site internet access, and related costs, for the weekly VM Oncology Pathology Conferences (VMOP) to permit hospital-based oncology experts to interact with on-site VM surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, radiotherapists, genetic experts, physicians, medical residents & students and support staff. These detailed multi-disciplinary reviews of all VM breast cancer cases ensures that all treatment options are explored and a consensus is reached for best management for each presented patient. In addition, these weekly VMOP conferences provide an educational opportunity for all attendees to learn about the pertinence of new concepts regarding breast cancer prevention, detection, and management, including available clinical trials, for their specific patients. These weekly sessions provide Royal College of Physicians of Canada credits for attendees.

Reducing Anxiety Through Supportive Oncology Environments

Decreasing the high anxiety related to a diagnosis of breast cancer and the regular ambulatory Oncology Center visits by exploring stress-reduction methods such as emphasizing a supportive environment, support therapies and help from a stable, recognizable, empathetic and committed staff.

Continuing Education for ABC Medical and Support Staff

Support access to Breast Cancer-related accredited courses, or other educational activities deemed pertinent by the VMOF Board for ABC medical and support staff to ensure they are knowledgeable and uphold the best breast cancer care standards.

Genetic Counseling and Risk Reduction Resources

To fund on-site access to a Genetic Counsellor to establish risk assessment and reduction, and facilitate identification and management of genetic mutations. In addition, The VMOF has funded a VM Risk Assessment & Risk Reduction booklet with pertinent information for the general public and patients regarding risk reduction via lifestyles, exercise, etc.

Regional Mission