Strengthening eHealth including telemedicine and remote monitoring for health care systems for CANcer prevention and care (eCAN)

Across Europe, receiving a timely cancer diagnosis and of surviving the disease differs considerably because of inequalities in preventive policies, access to state-of-the art diagnostics, treatments and care. The projection is that the number of diagnosed cancer cases may increase by a fourth by 2035. Therefore, the usage of telemedicine in healthcare has now even more been acknowledged as important in responding to epidemic situations, including the COVID-19 one. The exchange of best practices on the use of digital tools (such as online consultations and real-time clinical data exchange) could during cross-border emergencies and health crises provide assistance to individuals and patients living in remote and rural areas. This Joint Action (JA) called ‘Strengthening eHealth including telemedicine and remote monitoring for health care systems for CANcer prevention and care (eCAN)’ aims to bring the benefits of eHealth to all citizens and patients across EU-Member States (MS) focusing on cancer prevention and care. There is a need to harmonize telemedicine regulations and to explore the efficacy of teleconsultation programs and telemonitoring in the cancer field. The eCAN JA explores their role in two clinical trials focused on tele-rehabilitation and tele-psychological support in different populations of cancer patients (Breast Cancer, Head and Neck cancer and advanced cancer at recurrence) in 10 European countries