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Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally difficult. Many patients experience symptoms like pain, tiredness (fatigue), anxiety, and depression, which affect their daily lives. The E2C2 program (Engage, Educate, and Care Collaboratively) is a new way to support patients, especially those in rural areas, by treating the whole person—not just the disease.
What is the E2C2 Care Model?
The E2C2 program is a team-based approach to helping cancer patients manage symptoms like pain and fatigue. Instead of relying only on doctor visits, the program provides different levels of support based on how severe a patient’s symptoms are.
How it Works
- For moderate symptoms (such as mild pain or tiredness), patients receive educational materials to help them manage symptoms at home.
- For severe symptoms (such as intense pain or serious fatigue), a nurse care manager reaches out to provide personalized care and guidance.
Who's Involved
- Nurse Symptom Care Managers – Nurses who give direct support to patients.
- Oncology Care Teams – Cancer specialists who make sure treatments are customized for each person.
- Symptom Management Specialists – Experts who help patients with complex or hard-to-treat symptoms.
Key Findings
This approach ensures that patients get the right care quickly. They receive self-care tools to manage mild symptoms at home, direct support from a nurse when symptoms are more severe and specialist guidance for the most complex cases.
Community Impact
The E2C2 program is changing cancer care in important ways:
- Reduces the burden of symptoms by providing early support.
- Improves care in rural areas where specialist doctors may not be nearby.
- Enhances quality of life by making sure all patients get the help they need.
By using this model, every cancer patient—no matter where they live or how serious their symptoms are—gets the personalized support they need, both during and after treatment.
Researchers: A. Cheville, M.D., K. Ruddy, M.D., L. Rutten, Ph.D.
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