What is the role of the Provincial Advisory Council – Cancer?

The Advisory Council will provide advice to the Alberta Health Services Board and management on service delivery and program design for a province-wide cancer system.  The primary functions of the Advisory Council include:

• To seek and appropriately consider evidence and information from Albertans when advising on cancer planning, delivery and evaluation of cancer services;
• To provide advice regarding potential challenges, gaps, opportunities and strategic investment within cancer services provided by Alberta Health Services;  and
• Actively communicate the Advisory Council’s purpose and role.

The Advisory Council is also expected to:

• Develop an Annual Work Plan for its activities; and 
• Submit an Annual Report of their activities to the Board.

The Advisory Council is not responsible for resolving patient care concerns.  Alberta Health Services has well established processes and a Patient Relations Department which works with individuals and families to address concerns.  Concerns, feedback or complaints about patient care should be directed to the Patient Relations Department.

Why was the Provincial Advisory Council – Cancer established?

With the announcement of the formation of Alberta Health Services, the Minister of Health and Wellness also requested the establishment of a Provincial Advisory Council – Cancer.

Who can become an Advisory Council member? 

The Advisory Council membership will include a range of 15 to 18 individuals and will be comprised of the following:

Expert Members

• international oncology experts knowledgeable in various fields of cancer research, prevention, screening and treatment
• experts from areas of the Cancer Control spectrum, external to AHS (i.e. prevention and screening, specialized acute care, primary care, supportive care, palliative/end of life)
• stakeholder representation, which should include:
  • Alberta Cancer Foundation
  • Canadian Cancer Society (Alberta/NWT Division)

Public Members

• Up to eight members of the general public (including consumers and families with experience in the area of cancer).
• public members must be at least 18 years of age and have a demonstrated interest in the health of the community and in cancer issues generally.
• public members are individuals who have either been a patient or have a relative or close friend who had a cancer-related experience.

What is a Council member expected to do?

The expert members on the Advisory Council will consider and provide evidence-based suggestions on the following services, specifically as it relates to cancer:

• Prevention and screening;
• Diagnosis, treatment and care; and
• Research.

The public members, in addition to attending and participating in Advisory Council meetings, will share their views and opinions and represent those of their families, neighbours and communities.  The local knowledge of public members and their insight is important as they receive information and input from the community regarding cancer services.  Public members will also help to inform and educate the public about cancer care and help identify opportunities within the community where cancer care services can be improved.

Are Council members paid?

No.  These are voluntary positions.  However, out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of Advisory Council activities will be reimbursed at prevailing Government of Alberta rates.

What support is provided to the Advisory Council by Alberta Health Services?

Local leaders from Alberta Health Services (i.e. Cancer Care and Population & Public Health) will also provide opportunities for the Advisory Council to engage with facility and program leaders. The Advisory Council is supported by a Provincial Advisory Council Officer from within the Alberta Health Services Community Engagement Department.  Support includes administrative resources, provision of documents and reports, liaison and planning as well as strategic support. 

Is the general public made aware of the recommendations of the Advisory Council?

Yes.  Meetings are open to the public unless the Advisory Council determines that part or all of a meeting should be private.  Additionally, minutes of meetings and the annual reports of the Advisory Council will be available on the Alberta Health Services website, along with other information. www.ahs.ca/about/page4312.aspx

What value is placed on the input of Advisory Council?

Alberta Health Services is committed to engagement and is developing a comprehensive community engagement strategy.  Engaging Albertans is an integral part of health service delivery and allows for planning and delivery of health care to better respond to the needs of the community.  Consequently, health care leaders will work closely with the Advisory Council to ensure transparency and accountability in how cancer services are planned and delivered.

Are members expected to travel?

Yes.  Members are expected to attend meetings in person where possible.  Use of phone and video conference links will be available when needed to support attendance by all members.

Where and how often do Advisory Council meetings occur?

The location of each Advisory Council meeting will alternate between Calgary and Edmonton.  Other locations may be chosen if deemed necessary by the Advisory Council.  The Advisory Council will meet three times per year, or more often if deemed necessary.  Meeting dates and locations will be posted on the Alberta Health Services website.

Where can more information be found about the Provincial Advisory Council - Cancer?

Phone: Toll free 1-877-275-8830
E-mail: community.engagement@ahs.ca
Web: www.ahs.ca/about/page4312.aspx