Cancer patients in rural and remote areas of British Columbia seeking integrated care will soon have access to a virtual program, the first of its kind in North America.
InspireHealth's virtual program will include a two-day community-based workshop, integrated clinical services and on-line classes that will leverage personalized social-networking technologies.
After the workshop, patients will receive an in-depth consultation with an integrated physician. Ongoing support, including follow-up physician consultations, will be provided through an on-line cancer recovery program designed to inspire and assist patients with their commitment to making healthy choices going forward.
The first virtual office visit is scheduled for Terrace in early 2012 with other additional locations currently being developed.
InspireHealth improves cancer care delivery by helping patients learn how to support their own health and recovery and has operated a Vancouver centre since 1997. Integrated cancer care combines diet, activity and stress management with standard cancer treatments to promote an overall healthier lifestyle that can lead to better patient outcomes and cancer survival rates.
In June 2011, it was announced that InspireHealth centres will be opening in Victoria, Abbotsford, Kelowna and Prince George, as well as a virtual program to support rural and remote communities. The Victoria centre opened on Oct. 13.
"Every British Columbian who is facing a battle with cancer should have access to the integrated cancer care that is provided by InspireHealth," said Minister of Health Michael de Jong in a news release. "The virtual program ensures that cancer patients can receive support no matter where they live through a combination of services, including simply turning on their computer and logging onto the site."
InspireHealth is a non-profit society that is funded through a mix of physician salaries, patient-pay-membership fees and private donations. There is no charge for access to InspireHealth's physicians and nurse practitioners. Associated practitioners, like massage therapists, acupuncturists and naturopathic doctors, have patient-pay-fees.
Visit InspireHealth at: www.inspirehealth.ca for more details on the program.
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