e17007 Background: Our institution receives approximately 700 new patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) annually. A need was identified to develop, provide and evaluate services for the unique needs of HNC patients and their families. Methods: A dual leadership model was established, involving two HNC specialists: an advanced practice nurse and a radiation oncologist. After a literature search and environmental survey, we contacted identified H&N survivorship programs. Internal participants were identified from the HNC clinical team and existing institutional survivorship program. We established interdisciplinary Steering (focused on development and oversight of clinical & education programs) and Research (tasked with assessing needs and outcomes) committees. We sought consensus on program principles, scope, a definition of survivorship, and a theoretical model of the HNC journey. A half-day retreat including community partners and patient/family representatives was held to set 5-year priorities. Results: Little published literature on survivorship initiatives specific to HNC exists. Three HNC survivorship clinical or research programs were identified; the largest (established in 2009) was visited, while telephone contact was made with investigators at the others. Principles guiding program development included interdisciplinary collaboration, grass-roots expertise, and a holistic scope. We defined survivors as all HNC patients and their families, from diagnosis through death. Program scope includes physical, emotional, social, financial, functional and psychosocial needs. A theoretical map of the cancer journey and evolving challenges was developed. The retreat included 50 participants, representing 20 different roles. We identified these top priorities: 1) Establish a post-treatment team; 2) Make survivorship a (mandatory) standard of care; 3) Optimize patient navigation; 4) Match services to specific patient groups (eg. men); 5) Expand access to allied health services; and 6) Develop a clinical care pathway. Conclusions: Survivorship is a complex and evolving area of research and care delivery. A team-based, comprehensive approach has been developed to address the needs of the highly specialized HNC population.
