Nova Scotia adopts cancer-specific EMR and app

HALIFAX – Cancer care providers in Nova Scotia are moving from paper-based patient records to a cancer-specific electronic medical record system called ARIA CORE this fall. An online patient tool that connects patients with their care team will also expand to include more functions. These changes are the latest phase in the implementation of the multi-year Oncology Transformation Project (OTP).

The move from paper to electronic patient records, along with the expansion of the patient engagement app, was set to begin at the QEII Cancer Centre in Halifax this week. This change, supported by quality and safety measures to minimize risk, will roll out at the Cape Breton Cancer Centre and other sites in the province on November 12.

“ARIA CORE and the patient engagement app will benefit cancer care providers and their patients,” said Dr. Helmut Hollenhorst (pictured), senior medical director, Cancer Care Program. “Patient appointments may take a little longer early on as cancer care teams learn new ways of working, but the benefits will be worth it.

“Through ARIA CORE, cancer care teams will have immediate access to their patients’ cancer information, wherever their patient receives care in the province. The new system also improves safety for patients and reduces the chance of errors.”

With the patient engagement app, patients already have access to an online calendar with their cancer appointments and reminders. This fall, patients who are registered for the tool will also have access to cancer patient education materials and videos.

Patients who do not have a computer, a cell phone, or a tablet, will still receive the information they need and be able to connect with their care team. A family member or a friend can register for the app on their behalf, or they can receive paper copies of their appointment schedule and patient education materials. All patients will be given a phone number to call their cancer care team with any concerns or questions in between appointments.

Heather Mulligan, manager of advocacy for Atlantic Canada, Canadian Cancer Society, is supportive of the digital transformation underway within the Cancer Care Program.

“Patients and their caregivers want access to their cancer care team, and the information and resources that can improve their cancer experience,” said Mulligan. “This is especially true for rural Nova Scotians, who often travel long distances. This next phase of the Oncology Transformation Project will narrow the gap in equitable access to care, and better connect patients and their care providers – regardless of where they live.”

The Oncology Transformation Project was launched in February 2023. Phase 1, standardized patient scheduling in ARIA CORE, was introduced province-wide in June 2023. Phase 2, the move from paper records to electronic patient records was first introduced at one site – the community oncology clinic at Colchester East Hants Health Centre in December 2023.

Phase 3A expands the use of electronic patient records across the province. The final phase, ARIA Systemic Therapy Management (planned to include electronic prescribing), is scheduled for Spring 2025.