Engaging the patient voice in oncology quality improvement
As we continue to address all aspects of the quintuple aim, it’s becoming increasingly important to engage the patient voice in the care delivery transformation efforts to improve the patient experience, clinical outcomes and overall value of care. For more than a decade, many of the CQIs have instituted patient panels and advisory councils. It’s increasingly common to have patients who have innate, firsthand experience with clinical topics, attending and actively engaging providers for the various CQIs.
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Erika Lojko, BS, is a stage IIIC triple-negative breast cancer survivor, a mother and a widow. She dedicates her time supporting newly diagnosed patients through Imerman Angels and the Cancer Hope Network. Since 2017, she has led the Patient Oncology Quality Council of the Michigan Oncology Quality Consortium CQI, focusing on palliative and end-of-life care. Erika’s two-decade health care advocate career continues to have impacts at the personal, local and state levels.
What motivates you?
My endless drive is rooted in the knowledge that 1 in 8 women will have breast cancer — the most diagnosed cancer among American women. By mentoring newly diagnosed women, I am replacing fear with hope and offering support and solidarity. I provide the tools and skills necessary to guide them through the treatment process. The impact I have on the women and families that I serve inspires me to keep advocating on our behalf.
What is your goal for patient advocacy in Michigan?
My goal is for patients to confidently approach all aspects of the medical system, from testing to consultations, encouraging them to be active team members in their care. All patients are unique, with their own experiences and challenges, but all deserve respect and kindness and to feel supported and included in decisions about their health care goals.
What quality improvement result — that you have been able to put in place via the Value Partnerships platform — are you most proud of?
At the Michigan Oncology Quality Consortium, we are proud of the work completed by the Palliative Care & End of Life Taskforce. Recognizing the barriers to access palliative care across the state and collaborating with the Center to Advance Palliative Care to create the first-of-its-kind training certificate for prescribing providers in Michigan is a huge accomplishment. Expanding access to palliative care improves the well-being of patients and families coping with the effects of cancer treatment or a life-limiting illness by providing better symptom management, support and overall care.
What has been one of your hardest fought wins?
Our hardest fought win is changing the narrative around death care and highlighting the importance of advance care planning. Unfortunately, only 1 in 3 Americans have completed an advance directive. As a young widow, I am bringing a deeply personal and meaningful perspective to this conversation. This breaks down barriers and makes it easier for others to engage in these difficult but necessary discussions.
What is your favorite inspirational quote that keeps you motivated?
"Be the change you wish to see in the world" by Mahatma Gandhi. It emphasizes the power of personal action in driving transformation. This mindset gives a sense of purpose and control, knowing that actions, no matter how small, can ripple outward and inspire others. It keeps me motivated by reminding me that I don’t need to rely on others to create the change I want; I have the power to make a difference through my example and efforts.