Originally published in the Walleye Magazine (July 2022)
After the successful implementation of SeamlessMD, a remote patient monitoring app, across numerous surgical programs at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC), the Northwest Regional Cancer Centre at TBRHSC has become one of two sites in Ontario to offer the digital technology to oncology patients. Six months after introducing SeamlessMD to the oncology program, feedback from patients and staff remains positive.
“SeamlessMD was being used by our breast surgery patients to help prevent emergency department visits, adverse outcomes, and readmissions to our hospital,” explains David McConnell, director for regional Cancer Care Northwest. “The idea of introducing SeamlessMD to our oncology patients was attractive. Working with the SeamlessMD team, we were able to adapt the platform to tailor it for oncology patients.”
Cancer patients in Northwestern Ontario undergoing active treatment (radiation or systemic therapy) are now able to stay engaged in their care, get educated, and stay connected while at home. Patients and their caregivers are provided with access to this free interactive platform, which provides a step-by-step guide to help patients throughout their cancer care journey. The platform can be accessed from any smartphone, tablet, or computer.
“SeamlessMD is essentially patient education at your fingertips,” shares McConnell. “Rather than searching the internet to find answers to cancerrelated questions, most of the information you need will be available on the app. When using this platform, patients can ensure that the material has been reviewed in depth by our Cancer Care team and comes from reliable health resources.”
It is also important to note that patient education materials are still available in paper versions if patients choose to forego the virtual platform.
Through SeamlessMD, the Cancer Care team can send messages and reminders to help patients manage their symptoms and prepare for active treatment. Patients can complete their daily health checks to identify any questions or concerns about symptoms. Patients also have access to a self-care library with information on different topics related to cancer care, treatments, side effects, and follow up care, important phone numbers, and more.
The goal of implementing SeamlessMD is to improve the patient experience, provide patients with the confidence to handle appropriate concerns at home, be a reputable resource for patient questions and concerns, and catch signs of trouble including infection, fever, extreme pain, and more. Depending on the severity of symptoms indicated by patients within the app, patients may be prompted to call their doctor or visit the emergency department.
To date, over 400 patients have been enrolled in the program and feedback has been positive.
One oncology patient who has used the program at TBRHSC says, “It is very easy to use and the program helps me focus on relevant health issues that can affect me. It gives guidance on actions that can be taken to address areas of concern.”
For another patient, SeamlessMD has enhanced patient experience by reducing anxiety and inspiring confidence when it comes to taking control of their health and knowing when to seek help. “It really helps me as a reminder of options on selfcare and in my situation that is a big deal. I seldom feel sick enough to warrant a hospital visit but I certainly do not feel good.”
Patients who began treatment on or after the January 2022 launch date are presented with the option to enroll in the program. If eligible, our Cancer Care team will connect with patients and guide them through the process to register.
To learn more about what SeamlessMD has to offer, visit seamless.md. If you have an upcoming appointment at the Cancer Centre, talk to our staff or your care team to find out if SeamlessMD is an option for you.
“SeamlessMD is essentially patient education at your fingertips.”
