By Charles Lefebvre

AHS launches smartphone application to support cancer patients

Nov 28, 2018 | 1:32 PM

CALGARY, AB — Alberta Health Services has launched a new smartphone application aimed at helping cancer patients.

The My Care Conversations app was officially launched in Calgary on Wednesday. Developed by AHS and the Alberta Cancer Foundation, it will allow patients to record their conversations with their cancer care team to help them remember and confirm what was discussed with their doctor.

“Research shows patients may forget up to 80 per cent of healthcare information discussed at clinic visits,” says Mauro Chies, AHS Vice President of Cancer Control and Clinical Support Services, in a statement. “Large amounts of new information and words that are unfamiliar can be confusing. This app allows patients to record their clinic conversations and later share those with trusted family and friends, and other members of their care team, to help communicate information and reduce misunderstandings.”

Patients in Alberta have the right to record their clinical conversations, the release states, though it’s against AHS policy to record in public areas of AHS facilities. Patients who use the app need to do it in a private clinic room, and inform the team they’re planning to record the conversation.

The app has specific security features in place to ensure privacy, and it will allow patients to take notes, create files and offer prompt questions for patients to ask their care team. There are also links to other information and resources in the app.

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My Care Conversations can be downloaded on both Apple and Android Devices. There is no cost to download.