Keeping the pancreatic cancer health care community connected
2020 has done a very good job of derailing everyone’s plans. That includes our grand plan to deliver an assortment of face-to-face training and events across the UK to connect, develop and inspire more pancreatic cancer health professionals. But with a little innovation, we found a way to let the learning continue.
Our plans for our face-to-face training and events were a vital part of improving the future of everyone affected by pancreatic cancer. We were determined to ensure all the invaluable information we had to share reached the people it needed to. And so we embraced the digital world and adapted our events for a virtual audience. As a result, we’ve actually been able to reach more people from more corners of the UK (and beyond) than would ever be possible at a physical event.
In September, we brought back our postponed Annual Summit as three virtual sessions. Covering the same vital topics, we explored practical solutions to improve access to chemotherapy and optimal nutritional care, and to speed up the pathway from diagnosis to treatment. We were joined by over 500 health professionals, researchers, influencers, supporters and people affected by pancreatic cancer, who came together to play a role in improving outcomes for pancreatic cancer now. We were delighted to see attendees commit to hundreds of changes in the feedback.
“We found this very informative and we have taken away lots of things to try to implement in our own practice”
“I have attended all 3 sessions and found them really interesting and positive in terms of developments in management and care. As well as being a specialist cancer nurse my father died from pancreatic cancer 5 years ago, so have seen it from both sides. I feel you've managed to balance the needs of both really well. Thank you”
In October, we brought together nearly 200 nurses and dietitians at a variety of virtual National Study Sessions exploring how we can improve patients’ experience through treatment, dietetic management and emotional support. In the feedback, all attendees said their knowledge and understanding in each area had improved and it was great to see so many people saying the sessions will improve their practice.
We also held an Introduction to Pancreatic Cancer event on 12th October for health care professionals with limited or no experience of pancreatic cancer. Our Specialist Pancreatic Cancer Nurse, Lynne McCallum gave an introduction to pancreatic cancer, sharing how pancreatic cancer presents, the symptoms associated with this disease and the ongoing supportive care needs of people with pancreatic cancer. 38 people joined live and more have watched it since.
Even when things return to normal, or the ‘new normal’, we will continue to provide training and development both virtually and physically to ensure every health professional has the knowledge and understanding that they need to provide excellent treatment, support and care to every person affected by pancreatic cancer.
“It was fantastic and got me really reflecting on my practice.”