In 2020/21, BC Cancer collaborated with the BC SUPPORT Unit, patient partners, and academic partners from UBC and UNBC to more intentionally build POR capacity among PBRC trainees. We embedded POR content into (1) an asynchronous, online research methods course, and (2) a synchronous webinar that sought to provide facilitated feedback, improve participant research questions, and to encourage clinician reflection on the benefits of engaging PFPs as research partners. During the webinar, academic partners and PFPs co-facilitated small group discussions in breakout rooms. The webinar was also an opportunity to build POR capacity among PFPs. For this, four experienced PFPs collaborated as co-facilitators and three novice PFPs audited the session. Including PFPs as co-facilitators was a chance for teams to learn more about real world application of POR from a PFPs perspective.
Seven PFPs collaborated as co-facilitators and 13 clinician trainees (out of 17 attendees) completed a webinar evaluation survey. Most trainees indicated that the subject matter was presented effectively (77% agree, 8% strongly agree) and that they plan to apply their learning from the webinar (54% agree, 38% strongly agree). They valued the breakout sessions to obtain feedback from PFPs and the option to follow up with PFPs to discuss how to apply POR principles to their individual projects. PFPs found the experience personally rewarding and productive.
This innovative approach was a valuable experience for facilitators and trainees. Dedicated time is needed to onboard PFPs and co-construct the educational experience. PFPs should be compensated for their time and lived/living experience. Clinicians' ability to participate in the webinar change due to competing priorities, thus a dedicated coordinator and IT support for real time adaptation of the breakout sessions are crucial. This approach to building POR capacity among BC Cancer clinicians and patient partners is now an integral part of the curriculum of the BC Cancer Practice-based Research Challenge.