Our Vision
Working together to create the best cancer system in the world
The ultimate goal of the Ontario Cancer Plan is to offer Ontarians the very best in cancer prevention, screening and care. To achieve this, we will continue to benchmark ourselves against the highest-performing cancer systems in the world.
So what would the best cancer system mean for Ontarians? Here is Cancer Care Ontario’s vision of the best cancer system in the world and its implications for cancer care in Ontario:
"We need a specific target for the time between the detection of the abnormality and the definitive diagnosis. This way, patients are not left waiting and anxiously wondering if they have cancer."
Terrence Sullivan, PhD, President and CEO, Cancer Care Ontario
Effective prevention, early detection and diagnosis
Cancer Care Ontario looks to the future and sees a province where the rate of new cases of cancer is declining, due to greater awareness and better prevention detection and treatment efforts. All Ontarians will participate in screening as a regular part of their health care regimen. Highly organized and sophisticated screening programs, supported by e-tools will detect the signs and symptoms of cancer at a very early stage, followed by a coordinated diagnostic plan that will quickly result in a definitive diagnosis.
Seamless treatment plans based on each person’s genetic make-up
In a high-performing cancer system, oncologists, primary care practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, social workers and administrators will work together – virtually or otherwise – as a cohesive team. Supported by technology, they will collaborate in the care of their patients and be able to more quickly adapt their patient care to emerging research and developments in cancer. Innovations in science will also allow physicians to personalize diagnostic and treatment procedures based on each patient’s biological make-up and other individual factors such as lifestyle, gender and age.
Patients who are engaged, active members of the cancer care team
Ontarians of the future will take more active roles in their cancer care. Through e-tools, patients will have easy access to personalized disease and treatment information, and support from a community of cancer patients, health professionals, caregivers and research scientists. Ontarians and their caregivers will become partners in the cancer journey – a joint venture where supported self-care is the norm.
Support and respect for those dying of cancer
The best cancer system for Ontarians will ensure that those in the late stages of cancer are given the support and resources that will allow them to plan the remainder of their lives and, just as importantly, their deaths. Supported by the appropriate tools and technology, health professionals will do all they can to make patients as comfortable as possible while honouring their wishes and preserving their sense of dignity.
Can Ontario realize this vision within the next decade?
A high performing cancer system is within our reach. Continuing innovations in science and technology will help us achieve our aspiration. With a clear strategy, a strong foundation, and a relentless commitment to patient-focused care, this vision can become a reality.