The Atlantic Canada Oncology Drug Access Navigators Association (ACODANA) is a network of health professionals working in designated oncology drug access navigator positions throughout the provinces of Atlantic Canada (New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador). The number of persons working in these roles has grown significantly over the past decade and there is now at least one oncology drug access navigator in every cancer treatment centre.
In 2018, several oncology drug access navigators expressed an interest in connecting with one another for education, updates, and support. With a gap in formal training for drug access navigation in Canada, most navigators learn on the job or from those with prior experience in the field. There are few opportunities to continue education or get updates on funding programs. ACODANA is an opportunity to provide a central and reliable source of information and a way to share best practices. It is also an opportunity to identify common drug access challenges in the region and advocate for improvements in policies and programs.
ACODANA is not a professional registry or licensing body for drug access navigators. ACODANA simply aims to be a central communication and information hub for those working in the field, and a voice on drug access issues in the region. This work aligns with the work of other oncology drug access navigator groups in Canada, including the Ontario Drug Access Navigators of Ontario (ODANO).
The association was officially formed on December 19, 2019 and is a registered non-profit organization.
LEARN MORE about the Role of an Oncology Drug Access Navigator.
MISSION
To support and enhance the voice of Oncology Drug Access Navigators working in Atlantic Canada, with the aim of maximizing patients’ access to cancer-related drug treatments.
FUNDING
The association operates through the work of a volunteer leadership team and does not fundraise or receive government support. ACODANA relies on corporate sponsors for educational events and initiatives.