The CO-CAPTAIN project is being implemented in several European countries, including Spain, Poland and Greece, but today we will focus on its pilot in Austria. This pioneering initiative aims to provide personalised, evidence-based cancer prevention navigation for individuals facing mental health problems. Through a person-centred approach, CO-CAPTAIN aims to address risk factors such as smoking and overweight by facilitating access to essential health services.
A Personalised Approach in Austria
In Austria, the Medical University of Vienna is leading the management of the CO-CAPTAIN pilot, collaborating with various institutions, such as hospitals and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). This collaborative approach ensures that cancer prevention services are accessible and tailored to the individual needs of participants, taking into account the particularities of the Austrian healthcare system.
Pilot Implementation Status
The implementation phase of the project started in May 2024 and will run until October 2024, with a total duration of 18 months. So far, 15 participants have been included, with the goal of reaching 300 individuals. The Austrian pilot centres, which include the Hietzing Clinic, the Favoriten Clinic and the NGO LogInsLeben, all located in the city of Vienna, are designed to be low-threshold and accessible, ensuring that people with mental health problems can benefit from these services.
The Role of Patient Navigators
A key component of the project is the Patient Navigators (PNs), who play a pivotal role in the participants’ experience. In Austria, these professionals are two psychologists with expertise in counselling and treatment. They conduct needs assessments, create individualised offers and act as a point of contact for participants throughout the process. Their support is crucial to ensure that participants feel accompanied and understood on their cancer prevention journey.
Next Steps and Opportunities for Participation in Austria
As the project progresses, recruitment and training activities for Patient Navigators are underway. In addition, questionnaires will be used at different points in the implementation phase to collect data and evaluate the impact of the programme.
If you are an adult aged 18 or older with experience of mental health problems and are interested in participating in the Austrian pilot, we invite you to contact our Patient Navigators using the contact information provided below. Your participation can make a difference in the fight against cancer and in improving mental health care.
Contact
For more information on how to participate in the CO-CAPTAIN pilot in Austria, you can contact the study team at the Medical University of Vienna:
- Email: cocaptain.wien@gmail.com
- Telephone numbers:
- Hanna Mües, MSc: +43 677 624 834 62
- Katrin Schäfer, MSc: +43 677 619 175 13
The CO-CAPTAIN pilot in Austria represents a significant breakthrough at the intersection of mental health and cancer prevention. Through a person-centred approach and collaboration between various institutions, opportunities are being created to improve the health and well-being of those who need it most. Together, we can build a healthier and more accessible future for all.
