Through carrying out high quality research studies, the Cancer Outcomes Research (COR) Program is trying to improve the quality of care provided to persons with cancer in Nova Scotia. Most of our research explores access to cancer care, current patterns of cancer care, and what happens to patients as a result of this care. We study access, patterns, and outcomes through population-based approaches, which allow us to examine care for all cancer patients in Nova Scotia, not just those who attend the cancer centres in Halifax and Sydney. Therefore, through our research, we try to pinpoint those areas that need improvement and then study ways to enhance the care provided.

The COR team has developed important research studies, particularly in the areas of end-of-life care and long-term care of cancer survivors. We also study access to quality cancer care for patients with colorectal cancer, the second most prevalent cancer for both men and women in Canada. To ensure that our studies impact upon what actually happens in practice, we work to find the best ways of translating our research activities for physicians, decision-makers, and patients and their families.

As our population ages, the incidence of cancer will increase, placing even larger demands on treatment and health care resources. We realize that by monitoring and evaluating our system today, we will be in a better position to provide effective, timely, and sustainable cancer services in the future.