Grant: Doctoral Award - Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarships

Despite the unique impact of cancer on young adults, rising cancer incidence rates in this age frame, and significant levels of emotional distress, there are a clear lack of supportive care resources tailored to young adult cancer patients. However, thanks to increased interest in online services and technological advances, the internet offers a viable method of reaching out to patients across Canada. The multi site implementation of online supportive care services for young adults with cancer is therefore proposed. Six sites across three provinces will be selected, each with urban and rural representation. For research purposes, prior to participating online patients will be asked to complete a questionnaire to assess distress and to consent to review of their medical chart. The online program, care2talk.ca, will offer professionally facilitated weekly therapy sessions, the opportunity to connect with other patients, a chance to share experiences and thoughts, and a comprehensive list of resources tailored to each region. This research will allow for the examination of interest in online support, use of online tools, and will permit us to answer questions such as whether the distress experienced by young adults with cancer can be effectively treated through online group therapy. It is crucial that health care providers become involved in the provision of online support, ensuring continuity of care, improved access to supportive care services, and a secure online environment. Online support through the care2talk program represents a highly innovative method of providing quality, patient centered care. Given the novelty of this field and the doubtless transition to an increasingly online world, the potential exists for Canadian healthcare to become industry leaders in this endeavor.