Reviewed June 2008

Vision of the Council and Network

The Council and Network will assist family physicians to:

• prevent cancer for those at risk;
• coordinate the investigation of those with symptoms;
• care for those undergoing and recovering from cancer treatment;
• palliate those in need; and
• provide long term follow up for survivors.

Physicians will understand the patient's need for psychosocial support throughout the cancer journey. Family physicians in British Columbia will be focused on the coordination and continuity of patient care, prevention and early detection of cancer, better information for patients and care and support for patients and families throughout their journey. Family physicians will be encouraged to participate in a preceptorship program, continuing medical education and clinical oncology research groups.

The Council's communication tools will enable ease of access for all interested family physicians. It is recognized that family physicians must deal with a wide range of illnesses throughout the lifespan of their patients. As such it is the intent of the Council and Network to ensure that methodologies and the infrastructure created will provide the template and capability to address the wide range of health issues for which a family physician is responsible.

Purpose

To assist the BC Cancer Agency (BCCA) in its mandate to improve cancer control in the province by overseeing the planning, implementation and promotion of activities of the Family Practice Oncology Council's Working Groups and Network.

Council members will provide guidance on matters relating to improved patient care by family physicians. The scope of activities will include involving general and family practitioners in patient education (health promotion), oncology screening, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, palliative care and research. It will also involve engaging the appropriate BCCA staff in supporting the efforts of the Council and Network. The Council will also consider mechanisms by which general and family practitioners can be supported in their roles as community resources for cancer control as well as for other chronic and complex diseases.