AYA POWER: Feasibility and Early Outcomes of a Global Virtual AYA Oncology Education Curriculum

Abstract

Purpose:

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer face care disparities, compounded by a lack of formal AYA oncology education in pediatric and medical oncology fellowship programs. This critical workforce training gap hinders optimal AYA outcomes. We developed a virtual program, “AYA POWER” (Adolescent and Young Adult Program for Oncology Workforce Education and Resources), to provide high-yield education to improve care delivery and outcomes.

Methods:

AYA POWER is a virtual, longitudinal series addressing high-priority AYA topics. Content includes live lectures, on-demand recordings, and supplemental tools and materials. We evaluated the development, implementation, uptake, and impact via registration data, website analytics, and post-session feedback.

Results:

The curriculum launched in August 2023, attracting 1243 engagements with 653 live participants (395 unique attendees) and 590 on-demand views from 12 countries. Attendees represented diverse AYA stakeholders, including nurses, advanced practice providers, and oncologists. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the content’s relevance, practicality, and importance in addressing under-discussed topics.

Conclusion:

AYA POWER demonstrates the feasibility and early impact of a global, virtual, longitudinal AYA oncology curriculum. It successfully bridges a crucial educational void. Future integration into formal training and expanded outreach will enhance access to specialized AYA cancer care knowledge.

Keywords

adolescent and young adult oncology education fellowship

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