Long-term collaboration with education for better oncological care

Students from different study programs work together within the Oncology minor on innovative solutions to better support patients during their treatment journey. In multidisciplinary teams, they conduct research and develop practical and creative ideas that contribute to strengthening patients both physically and mentally, with a particular focus on lifestyle.

The minor

The minor offers students with a (para)medical background an in-depth perspective on cancer and oncological care. Themes such as prevention, diagnostics, treatment, and palliative care are approached from multiple perspectives: the development of the disease, the current state of scientific knowledge, and the patient’s lived experience. This broad approach enables students to critically analyze care situations and adapt their professional actions accordingly.

Collaboration with practice-oriented research

What makes this minor unique is its close connection to practice-oriented research. Students work on assignments from researchers and practice partners, addressing current challenges in oncological care. Examples include projects on prehabilitation for breast and colorectal cancer, supporting behavior change in people with cancer, initiatives such as GO2Fit, and collaborations with partners such as Haaglanden Medical Center and the patient organization Powder Days. Innovative and exploratory themes are also explored, such as the role of AI in oncological care or projects like “Screening the Neighbourhood.”

For the research group and the professional field, the minor offers a unique opportunity to investigate practical questions, develop new perspectives, and collaboratively build future-proof oncological care.

-  Sander Kerstens, lecturer-researcher

A new group each semester

Each semester, approximately 60 students work on these challenges. They bring diverse backgrounds, ranging from nursing and physiotherapy to nutrition and skin therapy. This multidisciplinary collaboration not only leads to valuable insights for practice but often also forms the basis for follow-up research or graduation projects. The results are presented every semester at Haaglanden Medical Center, where healthcare professionals can directly observe, ask questions, and contribute ideas about practical implementation.

Want to participate?

• Do you have a practice-based question or would you like to collaborate with students and researchers?
  Contact Sander Kerstens via: [email protected].