Community Oncology Pathway
Courses have been selected to support nurses working in regional community oncology sites across the province. Community oncology sites provide sophisticated care to most oncology populations and their families, enabling patients to receive their cancer care closer to home. Nurses need to demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and competencies according to standards for specialized cancer nurses to practice in community oncology sites.
Courses Included
| TTP Phase | Courses Included* | Registration | Duration (Weeks) | Learning Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novice to Advanced Beginner | Cancer Systemic Therapy Certification Course (CSTCC) (Provincial Standardized Chemotherapy and Biotherapy course) | 6 times yearly | 11 | 60 |
| Advanced Beginner to Competent | Foundations of Cancer Disease Sites Hematological Malignancies (CDSH) | On Demand | 8 | 13.5 |
| Advanced Beginner to Competent | Foundations of Cancer Disease Site(s) (CDSM) - choice depending on area of practice and learning need | On Demand | 6 | 3–5 |
| Competent to Proficient | Cancer Care Basics for Nova Scotia (CCBNS) | On Demand | 12 | 25 |
| Competent to Proficient | Oncological Emergencies: Core Conditions (OEMA) | On Demand | 6 | 5 |
| Competent to Proficient | Continue to enroll in Foundations of Cancer Disease Sites (CDSM) of choice depending on area of practice and learning need | On Demand | 6 | 3–5 |
| Proficient to Expert | CNA Oncology Exam Study Group (COES) (Please note that seats in COES are limited. Due to the implementation of the new NS Health CIS system (OPOR), access to this course is temporarily on hold and will be reassessed in 2027. Individuals considering enrollment are requested to discuss with their clinical leadership team.) |
2 times yearly | 20 | 27 |
| Proficient to Expert | Chemotherapy Competency Maintenance Course on Demand (CCMD) | On Demand | 8 | 5 |