Remote Cancer Care System Transforms Patient Experience
Tsawwassen Resident Finds New Program “Life-Changing”
A new home-monitoring program at Richmond Hospital is connecting cancer patients with their care teams remotely, providing vital support. This initiative aims to reduce patient burdens and improve communication, ensuring proactive care for those undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
How the System Works
The Remote Symptom and Patient Monitoring System (RESPONSe) program, launched in January 2024, allows patients to self-report their condition after chemotherapy. Dr. Jeremy Ho, medical oncologist, explained the goal is to facilitate better communication between patients and their doctors. Approximately 150 patients currently use the program.
Great news! A new home-monitoring system at Richmond Hospital is keeping chemotherapy patients connected with doctors and nurses. The Remote Symptom and Patient Monitoring System (RESPONSe) program helps patients self-report how they feel after each session. #healthcare #cancer
— Local News (@LocalNews)
“This program changed my life,”
—Sydney Cuthill, RESPONSe Program Participant
The program has already made a significant impact, with cancer care clinic nurses making over 700 calls to patients needing at-home assistance. Telemedicine appointments grew by 38% in 2023, demonstrating the increasing demand for remote healthcare solutions (CDC 2024).
A Patient’s Perspective
Sydney Cuthill, a 65-year-old resident of Tsawwassen, described the program as “life-changing.” She was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and has undergone multiple treatments. The program allows her to report both physical and mental symptoms, providing a lifeline of support.
Patients in the RESPONSe program complete a survey after treatment sessions. Nurses review the information and reach out if concerns arise. The system’s availability, however, is limited to weekdays during clinic hours. Dr. Ho expressed a desire for expanded coverage.
Improved Communication
The program’s primary benefit, according to many patients, is the opportunity to connect with medical professionals outside the clinic. Cuthill emphasized the comfort of knowing she could contact a nurse for support. Previously, patients often delayed seeking help until conditions worsened.
The system proactively identifies symptoms early. The traditional Chinese language version of the program has been introduced for Chinese-speaking patients. The hospital’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. Patients report feeling reassured, knowing that help is readily available.
The program has proven successful, and the hospital has received positive feedback from patients, who feel reassured knowing help is easily accessible. The hospital hopes to expand the initiative in the future.
