[Difficulties faced and support sought by individuals responsible for planning and managing cancer information specialist training sessions in each prefecture: Consideration of the content and direction of support provided by the National Cancer Center].

Abstract

Objectives　Training sessions for cancer information specialists at cancer information and support centers were conducted according to the designated cancer hospital's guidelines. The National Cancer Center (NCC) assists in the planning and management of training sessions for cancer information specialists in each prefecture. However, whether the support currently provided meets these needs remains unclear. Therefore, this study clarified the difficulties faced and support sought by specialists in each prefecture to help the NCC tailor the content and direction of support for holding training sessions, which should be prioritized eventually.Methods　We used data from training sessions held from 2020-2022 registered with the NCC. We aggregated information, such as the number of hours, target participants, and style of training sessions held. Data on participants' reactions, points that were directed careful attention during planning and managing training sessions, and required support were qualitatively and descriptively analyzed.Results　From 2020-2022, 195 training sessions were held in each prefecture, with four (2%) held in multiple prefectures. Moreover, 172 (88%) were online training sessions, 147 (75%) were exclusive to participants within one prefecture, and 82 (49%) were training sessions with ＜ 30 participants. The most common training topic was patient support, which occurred in 77 (40%) sessions. Based on the practical reports (free description) of the training sessions, the study identified the support from administrative staff, securing facilitators and participants, work burden associated with holding online training sessions, and securing a venue for consultation and information exchange.Conclusion　Training sessions for cancer information specialists in each prefecture are vital for acquiring and updating information about the trends in prefectural policies and local characteristics. Furthermore, they strengthened connections among individuals responsible for planning and managing these training sessions. To support each prefecture, the NCC should eventually hold training sessions in multiple prefectures, establish a network, and share specific information on the training sessions held in each prefecture.