Public Interest Group on Cancer Research: a successful patient–researcher partnership in Newfoundland and Labrador

Abstract

BackgroundPartnering with patients and family members affected by cancer is essential for meaningful research, public engagement and outreach, and advocacy activities.ObjectiveOur objective was to create a public interest group through an academic–community partnership focused on cancer research and public engagement.MethodsA purposeful recruitment process was implemented to ensure a diverse and inclusive group. The group meets virtually and communicates by email. The group’s activities focus on identifying the needs, priorities, and interests of cancer-affected individuals in the province; consultations; and designing research projects and public outreach activities together. Comprehensive meeting minutes are kept and used to distill discussion points. The work of the group is disseminated through a variety of channels.ResultsThe public interest group includes 12 cancer patient and family member representatives, in addition to researchers. Discussions by the interest group identified key themes related to: (1) equity issues and regional disparity in provincial oncocare; (2) information needs; (3) need for patient empowerment and public understanding; and (4) family member and partner needs and experiences. To date, the group has co-designed a cancer research proposal and a public engagement/outreach activity. The group also provides consultations on cancer-related projects/public engagement activities and members act as patient partners in specific research and public engagement proposals. The group evolves over time, and increasingly advocates on behalf of cancer patients and families. Retention and satisfaction of the public partners with group activities have been high. The group’s work and findings are disseminated to the Provincial Cancer Care Program, as well as to public and scientific stakeholders through local media, academic conferences and presentations, and a dedicated website.ConclusionPublic Interest Group on Cancer Research represents a highly successful patient–researcher partnership in oncology. It designs meaningful and patient-oriented studies and outreach activities in cancer. It also elevates and widely supports cancer patient and family voice.