EORTC recognises patient involvement as a vital component of our clinical research in cancer aiming to increase people’s survival and quality of life. We have observed that patients and those affected by cancer have gradually become active participants and co-designers in the research process.
Bringing their perspectives to the development and implementation of clinical trials helps us significantly improve the quality of lay language documents and find a balance between academic knowledge and its understanding by patients.
At EORTC, we believe in the concept of meaningful patient involvement. For us it implies the following:
- carrying out cancer research for patients together with patients,
- improvement of the wide variation of patient involvement in research,
- establishing long-term partnerships with patients as a step towards a more research-friendly environment, and
- recognizing the importance of patients’ voice in cancer clinical research.
Training for patients
EORTC offers training opportunities to enhance the patient involvement experience. The Patient Days sessions take place every 2 years for 2 days and are carried out in English.
Designed to inform and update European patients, caregivers, and patient representatives on research, it’s a unique learning opportunity to unite with researchers and medical professionals.
Together they can share experiences and learn from one another in interactive sessions. This improves understanding of what really matters to patients and their family members for future research.
The 5th edition of Patient Days was held on 25-26 November 2022. Find out more on our website: Patient Days 2022.
