The effect of an integrative oncology approach on health-related quality of life and symptom management among patients with metastatic cancer in BC - BC-922

Project type: Research
Desired discipline(s): Medicine, Life Sciences, Nursing
Company: Integrated Health Clinic (IHC)
Project Length: 6 months to 1 year
Preferred start date: As soon as possible.
Language requirement: English
Location(s): White Rock, BC, Canada
No. of positions: 1-2
Desired education level: PhD
Open to applicants registered at an institution outside of Canada: Yes

About the company: 

Integrated Health Clinic (https://www.integratedhealthclinic.com/) is a integrative medicine center and its mission is to advance the field of integrative medicine, and providing patients with innovative and holistic approaches to health and wellness. Our healthcare facility provides high quality integrative naturopathic medicine modalities ranging from dietary supplements, botanical medicines, acupuncture, lifestyle counseling, and physical therapies, in addition to standard pharmaceutical treatment. In Canada, this approach to healthcare has garnered little attention, partly due to lack of awareness and limited funding. Our team is committed to bridging this knowledge gap by conducting research to document the effectiveness of our integrative treatment approach, and to further advocate for more funding for these services hundreds of thousands or British Columbians rely on every year.

Describe the project.: 

The project aims to evaluate the quality of life of metastatic cancer patients utilizing integrative oncology services at IHC, using standardized patient-reported quality of life instruments. It aims to assess how the integrative oncology approach - which combines complimentary and integrative therapies with conventional cancer treatments – impacts the quality of life, symptom management, life satisfaction, and overall survival of metastatic cancer patients.

Main Goal of IHC

IHC’s primary goal is to provide best-in-class integrative medical services for our patients, as well as to further develop the body of knowledge on the effectiveness of integrative medicine services. The focus of our research is on generating evidence-based insights to ultimately improve patient care, particularly the quality of life and overall survival of metastatic cancer patients. IHC has pioneered a truly integrative palliative care approach, combining naturopathic and standard palliative medicine, significantly enhancing their patients' quality of life. Additionally, IHC seeks to guide health professionals in effectively utilizing integrative oncology for metastatic cancer patients.

Main Tasks for the Candidate

  1. Literature Review: Analyze existing research on quality of life in cancer patients using integrated oncology services, identifying gaps to inform study design.
  2. Study Design: Develop a methodology to measure quality of life, selecting appropriate metrics and tools.
  3. Research Proposal: Write a detailed proposal outlining objectives, significance, methodology, and expected outcomes.
  4. Funding Agencies: Research relevant funding sources and prepare tailored grant applications.
  5. Ethics Approval: Submit an ethics application to the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, ensuring compliance with ethical standards.
  6. Data Collection: Administer quality of life and symptom management surveys to participants, following proper protocols.
  7. Data Analysis: Collaborate with our statistician to analyze data and interpret results in relation to study objectives.
  8. Writing the Paper: Draft and revise a research paper detailing methodology, findings, and implications for integrative oncology services.

Methodology/Techniques

The methodology will follow a comprehensive literature review, likely employing a mixed-methods approach:

  • Quantitative: Pre-post intervention studies and surveys to measure quality of life and symptom management.
  • Qualitative: Interviews or focus groups to gather in-depth insights from patients about their experiences with integrated oncology services.

Required expertise/skills: 

  • Research Methodology: Strong knowledge of research methodology with previous experience in mixed-methods research (qualitative and quantitative).
  • Data Analysis: Familiarity with NVIVO and qualitative data analysis
  • Whole-Person Care: A passion for whole-person care is an asset.
  • Clinical Experience: Experience with clinical studies is preferred.

Express interest