Patient Education Archives

From access to continuity of care: when navigation becomes part of the solution

Why health systems need pathways, not just pilots

A test is not treatment. A referral does not necessarily mean that a person will reach the care they need. And a successful pilot does not, by itself, mean that a health system works for everyone.

This is the central message of a recent article by Gaurav Ghewade for the World Economic Forum, “Why healthcare systems need pathways, not just pilots.” The key question is no longer simply whether people can enter a health system, but whether the system can support them throughout the journey that follows.

In 2023, around 4.6 billion people worldwide were still not fully covered by essential health services. At the same time, chronic conditions, including cancer, require much more than a single intervention. They demand continuity, repeated contact with services, follow-up and coordinated support.

The critical question therefore becomes:

What happens after the first step?

Does a person know where to go next? Do they understand the procedures they need to follow? Are they aware of the rights and benefits available to them? Can they identify the appropriate services? Is there a clear pathway, or are they left to navigate a complex system on their own?

For people affected by cancer, the journey extends far beyond diagnosis and treatment. It can also involve administrative procedures, social and employment rights, financial and insurance benefits, access to social services, psychosocial support, caregiver needs and the return to everyday life.

This is why navigation is becoming an essential part of person-centred support.

From information to action: MYRTO

This is also the space in which MYRTO – Kapa3’s Digital Social Rights Navigator is being developed.

MYRTO does not replace doctors or healthcare professionals and does not provide treatment decisions. Its purpose is to help people affected by cancer and their caregivers access reliable and understandable information, better understand their social rights and available benefits, identify relevant services and move towards the next practical step in their journey. Kapa3 has positioned MYRTO within a broader approach to digital navigation, social accessibility and patient empowerment.

Because access is only the beginning.

What truly matters is ensuring that no one gets lost between the steps of their journey.

The development of MYRTO is supported by the TIMA Charitable Foundation, Founding Sponsor of MYRTO.

Source

Gaurav Ghewade, Why healthcare systems need pathways, not just pilots, World Economic Forum, 21 August 2026.

Co-creation in health research: from participation to meaningful influence

A new scientific study proposes a framework for understanding who participates in research, when they participate, how they contribute — and how much influence they actually have

Co-creation is becoming increasingly important across public health, research, social innovation and the design of healthcare services. Patients, caregivers, citizens, healthcare professionals, researchers and communities are more frequently being invited to contribute to the development of interventions, services and solutions.

Yet an important question remains:

What does “participation” actually mean?

The presence of a patient or community representative in a meeting does not necessarily mean that they can influence the design, decisions or outcomes of a research project. Similarly, being asked to complete a survey is fundamentally different from helping to design an intervention, interpret findings or determine how results are shared.

A new open-access study, published on 19 August 2026 in the Journal of Public Health, addresses this challenge. Katrina Messiha, Mai J. M. Chinapaw, Johannes C. F. Ket, Renée I. Wink and Teatske M. Altenburg developed the Co-creation Roles Framework, an operational framework designed to systematically describe and classify the roles of different stakeholders in co-creation research.

Moving beyond “who was involved?”

One of the study’s most valuable contributions is its shift away from simply recording whether stakeholders participated towards examining the nature, depth and quality of that participation.

The framework captures eight key dimensions:

the research stage at which participation occurs,
the target group or stakeholder involved,
the aim of involvement,
how stakeholder knowledge is used,
the level of engagement and influence,
the form of co-creation,
the platform through which engagement takes place,
and the duration of engagement.

The relevant question therefore becomes much more precise than “Were patients or citizens involved?”

Instead, researchers can ask:

When were they involved? What were they asked to contribute? How was their knowledge used? And how much influence did they actually have over decisions?

What did the study find?

To demonstrate the practical application of the framework, the researchers conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidance.

They analysed 39 scientific articles representing 19 youth-focused public health projects based on co-creation, Youth Participatory Action Research or Community-Based Participatory Research approaches.

The analysis revealed substantial variation in the ways stakeholders were engaged.

One particularly striking finding was that, under the strict definition used in the framework, none of the 19 projects reached the highest level of engagement — “empowerment”, where stakeholders hold genuine decision-making authority.

During the implementation stage, consultation and involvement were the most frequent levels of engagement, while consultation was also the most common approach during evaluation.

This finding matters.

It demonstrates that describing a project as “co-created” does not automatically mean that the people for whom an intervention is being developed have meaningful power to shape it.

Participation should not end when the research ends

Another important finding concerned dissemination and reporting.

Only 4 of the 19 projects included a reporting stage extending beyond conventional academic publication.

In some cases, young stakeholders were involved in presenting findings, communicating results within their communities, or developing dissemination materials and practical tools. Overall, however, stakeholder involvement in the final stages of the research process remained limited.

This is highly relevant to health research.

People who contribute their lived experience, time and knowledge to a study should not be considered merely a source of data. They can also play an important role in interpreting findings, shaping key messages and helping return knowledge to the communities from which it originated.

From patient participant to patient co-creator

This discussion has particular relevance for cancer research and cancer care.

Patients and caregivers hold a form of knowledge that clinical evidence alone cannot provide: the lived experience of illness and care.

They understand what treatment means in everyday life; where administrative, social or practical barriers interfere with care; whether a digital health service is genuinely understandable and accessible; which questions remain unanswered; and which outcomes actually matter to the people living with cancer.

Using this knowledge is not simply a matter of representation.

It is a matter of research quality.

For a patient-support organisation such as Kapa3, co-creation therefore means more than inviting patients into an existing process. It requires creating the conditions in which lived experience can become knowledge, knowledge can shape design, and design can ultimately lead to more relevant, accessible and person-centred services.

A framework for planning future research

The authors emphasise that the Co-creation Roles Framework may be valuable not only for describing completed research, but also for planning and evaluating future projects.

Research teams may use it prospectively to clarify stakeholder roles from the beginning, while funders, ethics committees and scientific journals could potentially use such structured approaches to assess how clearly and meaningfully stakeholder participation has been planned and reported.

At the same time, the framework should not yet be regarded as a definitive standard.

The authors explicitly call for external validation across diverse co-creation settings. They also recognise an important limitation: non-academic stakeholders were not directly involved in developing the framework itself, which may limit its sensitivity to some experiential and contextual understandings of stakeholder roles.

Recognising these limitations is itself an important part of advancing more rigorous participatory research.

The next challenge: not simply more participation, but more meaningful participation

Co-creation should not become another box to tick in a research proposal.

The more important challenge is to be able to demonstrate:

who had a voice, when that voice was heard, how it influenced decisions and what ultimately changed because of that contribution.

As healthcare moves towards more participatory, person-centred and digitally supported models of care, the shift from research about patients to research with patients, and ultimately towards research shaped together with patients, may become one of the defining requirements for research that is both scientifically robust and genuinely relevant to people’s lives.

Scientific source

Messiha K, Chinapaw MJM, Ket JCF, Wink RI, Altenburg TM. Development and application of a framework for classifying stakeholder roles in co-creation research: a Health CASCADE study. Journal of Public Health. Published 19 August 2026. DOI: 10.1007/s10389-026-02881-2.

Messiha_et_al-2026-Journal_of_Public_Health

A Calm Summer Begins with Proper Preparation Proactive Care Planning, Mental Decompression and Digital Support

Proactive Care Planning, Mental Decompression and Digital Support

Summer is a valuable opportunity for rest, renewal and quality time with the people we love. For people living with or after a cancer diagnosis, as well as for their caregivers, the possibility of enjoying a few days away from everyday life can contribute meaningfully to physical and mental well-being.

When a person’s health condition allows it, and with the agreement of the treating physician, even a short break can have a beneficial effect, enhancing quality of life and supporting the sense of returning to everyday life (Lim et al., 2022).

The quality of life of people living with or after a cancer diagnosis does not depend solely on medical treatment. Mental well-being, social support, optimism and resilience are equally important factors that facilitate adaptation to the disease and contribute to patients’ overall well-being (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022). At the same time, current guidelines underline the importance of integrated and personalised care, as well as continuous support for people living with or after cancer at every stage of their journey (Hart et al., 2024).

However, the peace of mind associated with holidays does not begin on the day of departure. It begins much earlier, through proper preparation. Practical pending issues, administrative procedures or concerns about unexpected events during the holidays can increase stress and reduce the feeling of safety. By contrast, proactive care planning allows patients to organise what is needed in advance, so that they can devote their time to rest rather than obligations.

Timely renewal of medical certificates, ensuring an adequate supply of medication for the entire period of absence, communicating with the treating physician when necessary, and keeping essential medical documents in an easily accessible format are simple but important steps of preparation. In this way, continuity of care is safeguarded, while the uncertainty that often accompanies travel is reduced.

Reliable information and timely support are key pillars of modern oncology care. When people know where they can turn and have easy access to trustworthy information, they feel safer, their autonomy is strengthened and the management of daily life becomes easier (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022; Hart et al., 2024).

In today’s world, digital tools can complement support services by facilitating access to reliable information wherever the patient may be. In this direction, Kapa3 is moving forward with the development of Myrto, the digital social navigator, designed to provide direct access to information on social rights, available services and useful guidance. In this way, it facilitates access to the organisation’s services and reliable information, contributing to better preparation before and during holidays.

For all of us at Kapa3, technology does not replace human care; it complements it. It is another means of facilitating access to trustworthy information and available services, while the Social Service and Psychological Support Service of Kapa3 remain the core pillar of holistic support for people living with cancer and their families.

Let us remember that care does not stop when holidays begin. It continues through small but meaningful acts of preparation, proper information and timely planning. Because, many times, the greatest luxury of a holiday is not the destination itself, but the feeling that we can enjoy our moments with calmness, safety and trust.

The Social Service and Psychological Support Service of Kapa3 wish everyone a safe, peaceful and refreshing summer, with health, strength and beautiful moments.

Before Leaving for Your Holidays…

✔️ Make sure you have an adequate supply of your medication for the entire period of your absence.

✔️ Check whether there are any medical certificates, prescriptions or other administrative pending issues that need to be settled in time.

✔️ Discuss with your treating physician any special instructions related to travel or movement.

✔️ Keep with you the necessary medical documents and important contact details.

✔️ Find out about available support services and make use of the Kapa3 App, so that you have easy access to useful information wherever you are.

References

Hart, N. H., Nekhlyudov, L., Smith, T. J., Yee, J., Fitch, M. I., Crawford, G. B., et al. (2024). Survivorship Care for People Affected by Advanced or Metastatic Cancer: MASCC-ASCO Standards and Practice Recommendations. JCO Oncology Practice, 20(9), 1160–1172. https://doi.org/10.1200/OP.23.00716

Lim, J. H. C., Keenan, C., & Flaherty, G. T. (2022). All My Life to Live: Travel Health Benefits and Risks for Cancer Survivors. Journal of Travel Medicine, 29(5), taac069. https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taac069

National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2024). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®): Survivorship. Version 2.2024. Plymouth Meeting, PA: National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Ruiz-Rodríguez, I., Hombrados-Mendieta, I., Melguizo-Garín, A., & Martos-Méndez, M. J. (2022). The Importance of Social Support, Optimism and Resilience on the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 833176. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

World Health Organization. (2022). World Mental Health Report: Transforming Mental Health for All. Geneva: World Health Organization.

Official Access Links

Hart et al., 2024 — MASCC-ASCO Standards:
https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/OP.23.00716

Lim et al., 2022:
https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taac069

NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Survivorship:
https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/survivorship.pdf

Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

WHO World Mental Health Report:
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240049338

Marilia Barka
Psychology Student
Kapa3 Volunteer

www.linkedin.com/in/maria-garyfalia-marilia-barka-03825a409

“Myrto” under Scientific Evaluation: Transparency, Evidence and Human Oversight in Social Navigation for Oncology Patients

The first closed scientific testing workshop of the Digital Health and Social Rights Navigator has been completed

Athens, 6 July 2026

The first closed scientific testing and evaluation workshop of “Myrto”, the Digital Health and Social Rights Navigator developed by the Cancer Patient Guidance Centre – Kapa3, was successfully completed.

The workshop was organised by the Cancer Patient Guidance Centre – Kapa3, with the support of René Descartes – Cnam College and the participation of SimasiaAI. It functioned as a dynamic scientific co-design workshop, bringing together specialised professionals from the fields of healthcare, social care, information technology and personal data protection.

The process was closed and strictly experimental in nature and did not constitute a public presentation of a completed product. Its purpose was to evaluate the behaviour of the application through hypothetical and fully anonymised scenarios, to record correct responses and areas requiring improvement, and to use expert feedback for the next phase of development.

The project “Myrto – Health and Social Rights Navigator” is being developed as a knowledge-based digital social navigation system, guided by the principles of explainable, transparent and human-centred Artificial Intelligence.

Its aim is to transform complex legal, administrative and social information into clear, evidence-based and practically useful guidance for oncology patients, caregivers and citizens.

“Myrto” does not replace professional social, legal, medical or clinical judgement. It operates as a supportive information and navigation tool, with clearly defined functional boundaries, human oversight and the possibility of referral to the competent services and professionals of Kapa3.

The programme is implemented with the support of the TIMA Charitable Foundation.

From Information to Understandable Knowledge

During the workshop, the need that led to the creation of “Myrto” was presented, along with the real barriers faced by patients and caregivers when seeking information on social rights, benefits and administrative procedures.

Particular emphasis was placed on addressing digital and informational exclusion. “Myrto” is designed to transform fragmented and often difficult-to-understand information into simple, structured and comprehensible guidance.

A Thematically Specialised and Curated Knowledge Base

The project’s technical partner, SimasiaAI, presented the operation of the application and the architecture used for information retrieval and synthesis.

“Myrto” uses a hybrid search mechanism that combines text retrieval and semantic search techniques, with the aim of identifying the information most relevant to the user’s question. The application operates on a thematically specialised and curated knowledge base.

A central element of its design is the traceability of information, namely the ability to link an answer to the source on which it is based. The use of validated sources reduces the risk of unsupported responses and enables the identification, review and correction of issues through a process of continuous maintenance, regular updating and adaptation to evolving guidelines and regulatory requirements.

Explainability and Human-Understandable Answers

The evaluation did not focus only on whether “Myrto” retrieves the correct information, but also on whether it can present that information in a clear, understandable and conceptually coherent way.

This approach strengthens trust, responsible use of the tool and the meaningful empowerment of citizens through a response-generation system that supports a transparent, evidence-based and human-supervised knowledge ecosystem, in which every piece of information is understandable, verifiable and connected to its source.

Data Protection and Compliance by Design

Personal data protection and regulatory compliance are embedded from the design stage of the application, in accordance with the principles of data protection by default and by design.

During the workshop, only hypothetical or fully anonymised cases were used. Particular emphasis was placed on the principles of data minimisation, anonymisation and secure processing. These principles are directly linked to contemporary requirements for the responsible development of Artificial Intelligence systems, the protection of special categories of data and compliance with the European regulatory framework.

Live Testing of Hypothetical Scenarios

The professionals who participated in the workshop tested the application individually and in small groups, using only hypothetical and fully anonymised cases. The testing was based on an approach that evaluated the behaviour of the system, examining not only whether the final answer was correct, but also whether the overall operation of the application was safe, understandable and appropriate for the specific request.

Disability Certification through KEPA

In one of the key scenarios, “Myrto” was asked to guide a hypothetical patient who did not know how to start the disability certification procedure through KEPA. The system retrieved the main steps of the process, organised the information in an understandable format and provided relevant references to the sources.

Participants evaluated:

the accuracy of the information,
the completeness of the steps,
the clarity of the language,
and the practical usefulness of the answer.

Travel from the Region for Treatment

In a second scenario, the case of an oncology patient who needed to travel from the region to another location for treatment was examined. The application identified relevant categories of socioeconomic support and benefits and presented possible next steps to the user.

The test allowed participants to assess:

the correct identification of the request,
the connection between different rights and benefits,
the completeness of the sources,
and the possibility of referral to the appropriate services.

At the same time, cases were also examined in which:

the question was unclear or incomplete,
the user did not know which right or benefit to look for,
clarifying questions were required,
medical or personalised legal advice was requested,
or immediate human intervention was necessary.

A Continuous Cycle of Scientific Feedback

The meeting concluded with a discussion of the testing results, a review of the technical logs and the presentation of key usage statistics for the application.

The participants’ observations are not treated as isolated comments, but as structured scientific feedback for improvement. In this way, a closed cycle of learning and feedback is created, in which technology, scientific knowledge and the experience of professionals interact continuously.

The continuous involvement of experts and the integration of structured feedback are considered critical for strengthening transparency, reliability and trust in Artificial Intelligence systems used in sensitive fields.

The Interdisciplinary Project Team

The development, scientific documentation and regulatory compliance of “Myrto” are supported by an interdisciplinary team from the fields of health services administration, information technology, personal data protection, language technology and software development. The workshop was attended by:

Evangeli Bista, Co-founder of Kapa3 and Head of Strategic Partnerships; Aristea Archontidou, Industrial Informatics Engineer with postgraduate specialisation in Health Policy and Health Services Planning; Anastasia Vlachopoulou, lawyer and member of the Thessaloniki Bar Association, specialised in personal data protection; Dimitris Papadakis, Co-founder and Sales Manager at SimasiaAI and Project Manager of the “Myrto” project; and Giannis Barous, Co-founder and CTO of SimasiaAI, PhD candidate in Computer Science based in San Francisco, who has undertaken the technical component of the project: how the system identifies the right information, how it connects it with reliable sources and how it provides answers that are evidence-based, useful and safe.

About Kapa3

The Cancer Patient Guidance Centre – Kapa3 is a social support, information and navigation organisation for oncology patients, survivors, caregivers and their families. Its aim is to contribute to equal access to oncology care, social protection and the rights associated with the cancer experience.

Every day, Kapa3 supports people who face not only the disease itself, but also a range of practical, administrative, social and psychosocial challenges. Through personalised social guidance, the organisation helps patients and caregivers learn about their rights, understand available benefits and services, navigate administrative procedures and connect with appropriate support structures.

The main pillars of Kapa3’s work include information on social and insurance rights, support in accessing health and social care services, guidance on benefits and procedures, empowerment of patients and caregivers, and connection with professionals, organisations and communities.

As part of its digital strategy, Kapa3 develops digital empowerment and social navigation tools, such as “Myrto”, the Digital Health and Social Rights Navigator. “Myrto” is designed to transform complex legal, administrative and social information into clear and evidence-based guidance for oncology patients, caregivers and citizens, always with human oversight, transparency and respect for the limits of technology.

Kapa3’s philosophy is based on the principle that care is not limited to medical treatment. It includes access to information, social protection, psychosocial support, dignity, empowerment and the ability of every person to know and claim their rights.

Through collaborations with health and social care professionals, academic and research institutions, civil society organisations, public structures, volunteers and communities, Kapa3 seeks to build bridges between the patient, information, services and real access.

Ηλικία, φύλο και ανοσοποιητικό σύστημα τα στοιχεία που αυξάνουν τον κίνδυνο θανάτου από covid19

Cancer Immunotherapy: A Revolution That Continues to Transform Cancer Care

Over the past fifteen years, cancer immunotherapy has transformed the landscape of oncology, offering new hope and treatment possibilities to patients around the world. What began as a promising scientific concept has evolved into one of the most important pillars of modern cancer treatment.

According to the Cancer Immunotherapy Insights & Impact Report 2026 published by the Cancer Research Institute, a total of 156 immunotherapy approvals were granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2011 and 2025, reflecting the remarkable growth and impact of this field. Many of these therapies are based on immune checkpoint inhibitors, which help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Unlike traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, immunotherapy works by empowering the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. By enhancing natural immune responses, these therapies can help the body identify and destroy cancer cells that might otherwise evade detection. For many patients, immunotherapy has led to longer survival, improved disease control, and a better quality of life.

The year 2025 marked another milestone in the advancement of cancer immunotherapy, with thirteen new FDA approvals. Notably, patients with anal cancer gained access to their first approved immunotherapy option, highlighting the expanding reach of these innovative treatments. New methods of administration, including subcutaneous therapies, are also making treatment more convenient and accessible for patients.

Research in cancer immunotherapy continues to progress at an extraordinary pace. Scientists are developing new strategies to overcome the mechanisms that allow cancer to hide from the immune system, while exploring novel therapeutic targets, combination treatments, and personalized approaches to care. These advances aim to increase the number of patients who can benefit from immunotherapy and improve outcomes across a wider range of cancers.

While challenges remain and not all patients respond equally to treatment, immunotherapy represents one of the most significant breakthroughs in the history of cancer care. Ongoing scientific innovation continues to bring hope that more effective, personalized, and accessible treatments will become available in the years ahead.

At KAPA3, we recognize the importance of raising awareness about advances in cancer treatment and supporting informed decision-making. Knowledge empowers patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, helping them navigate the cancer journey with greater confidence and hope.

Source: https://www.cancerresearch.org/cancer-immunotherapy-report-2026

Memorandum of Understanding between the University of West Attica—specifically the Department of Occupational Therapy—and the NGO KAPA3.

On Tuesday, June 9, a meeting was held to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of West Attica—specifically the Department of Occupational Therapy—and the NGO KAPA3.

The meeting was attended by the Rector of the University of West Attica, Panagiotis Kaldis Penelope Vlotinou, Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy Evangelia Bista, co-founder of the organization, as well as representatives from both organizations, including the interdisciplinary team of KAPA3: Despoina Chrysostomou, Psychologist Katerina Georgiopoulou, Social Worker Yiannis Kontogiorgis, Psychologist, and Eleftheria-Irini Polyzoti, an intern from the Department of Social and Educational Policy, as well as students from the Occupational Therapy Department.

During the meeting, a constructive discussion took place regarding the prospects for cooperation between the two organizations, with the aim of developing joint actions and initiatives that will contribute to strengthening education, research, social contribution, and the connection between the academic community and society.

In this context, it was decided in April to jointly organize a major scientific conference, which will focus on an interdisciplinary and holistic approach to health, on combating social inequalities in healthcare, as well as on the management of chronic disease. The aim of this initiative is to raise community awareness, facilitate the exchange of expertise among professionals and scientific bodies, and disseminate scientific knowledge and information to the general public.

Special mention was made of the innovative work of KAPA3, the digital Health Navigator “Myrto,” a modern artificial intelligence tool currently under development and designed to support cancer patients, their families, and their caregivers. “Myrto” will function as a digital assistant (Chatbot) and Health and Rights Navigator, providing immediate, reliable, and personalized information on health, social welfare, rights, benefits, and available support services. The project aims to empower patients, improve their access to information, and reduce inequalities in health and social care through the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence applications. The development of “Myrtos” represents a pioneering application of social artificial intelligence in the field of oncology care in Greece and is part of KAPA3’s strategy to promote innovation, accessibility, and the active participation of patients in managing their own health.

The meeting concluded in a particularly positive atmosphere of mutual appreciation and recognition. In this context, the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of West Attica made a symbolic gesture toward the representative of KAPA3, Evangelia Bista, presenting her with a commemorative gift as a token of appreciation for her many years of valuable social contribution in the field of support for cancer patients. At the same time, as a gesture of hospitality and appreciation, the team was offered a specially produced wine, which is an original creation of the University of West Attica.

Confirmation of AMKA for Child and Parent

A major institutional development is set to simplify the lives of cancer patients and their families by eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. The new ministerial decision introduces digital proof of kinship for the dispensing of High-Cost Medications (FCM). The Kapa3 team presents a detailed overview of all the changes affecting insured individuals’ daily access to their essential treatments.

A Digital Leap Toward Equal Access to Care

The new decision provides for the launch of the specialized online service “AMKA Verification for Child-Parent.” This service is directly integrated into the “PLATFORM FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF PHARMACY-ISSUE MEDICATIONS BY PRIVATE PHARMACIES/EOPYY PHARMACIES” information system.

For the people Kapa3 serves every day, this development translates into an immediate reduction in bureaucracy and hassle. From now on, the verification of family relationships will be performed automatically, ensuring that vulnerable groups and their caregivers do not waste valuable time waiting for approval of their necessary treatment regimens.

This upgrade is a matter of respect and dignity for the patient who is fighting their own battle. At Kapa3, we continue to stand by every cancer patient and their family, ensuring that information and care reach those who truly need them—quickly and easily. Because when it comes to health, every minute we gain is precious.

What’s Changing in Patients’ Daily Lives

Until now, in order to obtain approval for the dispensing or delivery of an expensive medication for a child or dependent, it was often necessary to submit additional documents (such as family status certificates) or in-person verification of the parent-child relationship.

What sets Decision 3 of this Government Gazette apart is the following:

Automatic Data Matching: It digitally connects information systems in real time. The EOPYY platform now automatically “reads” the relationship between a parent’s and child’s AMKA numbers through the Interoperability Center.

Immediate Approval of Requests: The parent or close relative logs into the digital “FYK DISPENSATION PLATFORM” using their own credentials and can submit the request immediately, without the process being held up due to a lack of the child’s identification.

Flexibility in Pickup: It facilitates faster scheduling of appointments at EOPYY pharmacies or pickup from private pharmacies, dramatically reducing wait times for vulnerable patients

Reducing bureaucracy is not merely a digital upgrade; it is a matter of respect and dignity for the patient who is fighting their own battle. At Kapa3, we continue to stand by every cancer patient and their family, ensuring that information and care reach those who truly need them—quickly and easily. Because when it comes to health, every minute we save is

Newsletter Kapa3| June 2026,From survivorship to quality of life — from information to support — from technology to human-centred care.

May was a month of important developments, scientific outreach and service enhancement for Kapa3. From the new European scientific publication of the MELODIC project and educational participation in international networks, to the development of “Myrto”, the creation of a new Psychological Support Team and support through social and corporate initiatives, Kapa3 continues to bring together knowledge, technology, human care and social action.

Our mission remains focused on equal access for cancer patients and their caregivers to information, rights, services and meaningful support.

1. June: Cancer Survivors Month

June is dedicated to people living with and beyond cancer. Survivorship is not only the end of treatment; it is continuity, adaptation, reintegration, psychosocial support, quality of life and the right to care beyond therapy.

▸ EN: https://www.kapa3.gr/en/june-cancer-survivors-month-title-sep-sitename/

2. Kapa3 Introduces Its New Psychological Support Team

On the occasion of Mental Health Awareness Month and Cancer Survivors Month, Kapa3 introduces its new Psychological Support Team: a safe space for listening, support and empowerment for patients, survivors, caregivers and families.

▸ CONTACT US https://www.kapa3.gr/en/kapa3-introduces-its-new-psychological-support-team/

3. New MELODIC Scientific Publication on the Mental Health of Young Adults with Cancer

Mental health is an integral part of cancer care, particularly for young adults facing the complex challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Kapa3 contributes to the new scientific publication of the European MELODIC project, highlighting the educational needs of healthcare professionals.

▸ READ THE ARTICLE

4. Digital Health and Cancer Survivorship: Kapa3 at the INE-CSC 2026 Conference in Coimbra

Kapa3 participated in the INE-CSC 2026 Conference in Coimbra, contributing to the European dialogue on cancer survivorship, supportive care, digital health and participatory solutions that respond to the real needs of patients and caregivers.

▸ READ THE ARTICL Ehttps://www.kapa3.gr/en/participation-in-ca21152-implementation-network-europe-for-cancer-survivorship-care/

5. Co-creating Myrto: A Digital Health and Rights Navigator for Oncology Patients

Myrto is designed as a digital health and rights navigator — a Patient Empowerment e-Navigator — that goes beyond information provision to guide, support and evolve according to users’ real needs.

▸ READ THE ARTICLE https://www.kapa3.gr/en/myrto-health-navigator-oncology-patients-greece/

6. Learning by Doing: Participation in the European Service Learning 2.0: CoLab Programme

Kapa3 participated in the European programme Service Learning 2.0: CoLab, an initiative connecting academic knowledge with meaningful social action and highlighting collaboration between universities, civil society organisations and community actors.

▸ FIND OUT MOREhttps://www.kapa3.gr/en/learning-by-doing-participation-in-the-european-service-learning-2-0-colab-programme/

7. Alpha Bank and Its Employees Support Kapa3 through the Match for Good Initiative

Through the Match for Good initiative, Alpha Bank and its employees supported Kapa3, strengthening our mission to stand alongside people affected by cancer, their families and caregivers.

▸ FIND OUT MORE https://www.kapa3.gr/en/i-alpha-bank-kai-oi-ergazomenoi-tis-stirizoyn-to-kapa3-kai-tin-isotimi-prosvasi-stin-ypostirixi-ton-ogkologikon-asthenon/

8. 6 Awards for Kapa3 at the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Crossing: Is There Such a Thing as a “Lonely Race”?

Kapa3 took part in the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Crossing, sharing a strong message of participation, resilience, empowerment and solidarity. Even when a race seems individual, it does not have to be lonely.

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June: Cancer Survivors Month

Survival is a victory — but care must continue

June is dedicated to people living with and beyond cancer. It is a month of recognition, hope and respect for every person who has faced a cancer diagnosis, completed treatment, continues treatment, or lives with cancer as a long-term condition.

Cancer survival is a major victory. However, for many people, it is not the end of the story. Life after cancer often brings a new reality: follow-up appointments, fear of recurrence, fatigue, emotional distress, changes in body image, work-related challenges, financial pressure, family adjustments and the need to rebuild everyday life with confidence and dignity.

Cancer Survivors Month reminds us that survivorship is not only about living longer. It is also about living better.

A cancer survivor is not only a person who has completed treatment and is disease-free. The term also includes people receiving maintenance treatment, people living with cancer as a chronic condition, and those who continue to experience the physical, emotional, social or economic consequences of the disease and its treatment.

In recent years, advances in early diagnosis, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and supportive care have increased the number of people living many years after a cancer diagnosis. This is a major achievement for medicine, research and public health. At the same time, it creates a new responsibility: to ensure that survivorship care is organised, person-centred and accessible to all.

For many survivors, the end of active treatment is a moment of relief and gratitude. Yet it may also bring uncertainty. Some people feel that everyone around them expects them to “go back to normal”, while they are still trying to understand what has changed in their body, their emotions, their relationships and their daily life.

The fear of recurrence, anxiety before follow-up tests, persistent fatigue, pain, cognitive difficulties, changes in sexuality, emotional vulnerability and social isolation are real experiences for many people after cancer. These needs should not be underestimated. Survivors need space to speak, reliable information, access to professional support when needed, and connection with communities and organisations that understand their journey.

Long-term follow-up is also essential. Survivorship care should not focus only on recurrence. It should also include prevention, early recognition of late effects, management of treatment-related complications, support for mental health, healthy lifestyle guidance and personalised monitoring according to each person’s cancer type, treatment history, age and individual risk factors.

The message is not fear. The message is awareness, prevention and continuity of care.

Life after cancer is also about rights. It is about returning to work, accessing social benefits, understanding available services, managing financial toxicity, supporting caregivers, protecting dignity and ensuring equal access to care. Survivorship must be seen as a social, psychological and practical issue — not only a medical one.

At Kapa3, we see every day that cancer does not always end with the last treatment. It continues in the questions people ask about their rights, their next steps, their follow-up, their access to benefits, psychological support, work, family life and social reintegration.

This is why people living with and beyond cancer need holistic support. They need information, guidance, psychosocial care, access to rights and services, empowerment and continuity of care. No one should feel alone after treatment. No one should be left to navigate bureaucracy, uncertainty or lack of information without support.

Cancer Survivors Month invites us to change the way we talk about survival. We should not ask only: “Did the person survive cancer?” We should also ask:

Are they living with quality of life?
Do they have access to the care they need?
Do they know their rights?
Do they receive psychological and social support?
Can they return to work and daily life with dignity?
Is there a follow-up plan?
Is there someone to guide them when they do not know where to turn?

Cancer survival is a victory. But the real challenge is to turn this victory into a life with quality, safety, rights, support and hope.

At Kapa3, we continue to stand beside every person living with and beyond cancer. Through information, guidance, empowerment and human-centred support, we believe that care does not stop at treatment.

It continues in life.

New MELODIC Scientific Publication on the Mental Health of Young Adults with Cancer

Kapa3 participates in the new scientific publication of the European MELODIC project, entitled:

“Educational Needs Regarding Mental Health of Professionals Working with Young Adults with Cancer: A European Survey.”

The publication addresses a highly important issue in contemporary cancer care: the educational needs of healthcare professionals working with young adults with cancer, particularly in relation to recognising and supporting mental health concerns.

Young adults experiencing cancer often face complex psychosocial challenges. Diagnosis, treatment, changes in daily life, impact on studies, work, relationships, body image and future planning can deeply affect their mental health and quality of life.

The European study, involving 271 healthcare professionals from 21 countries, highlighted an important gap between professionals’ willingness to support patients and the systematic use of validated assessment tools. While approximately half of the participating professionals reported feeling confident in identifying mental health issues, only a small percentage reported using validated screening tools.

This finding is particularly important. It shows that awareness and professional experience are valuable, but they are not enough on their own. Targeted education, appropriate tools, interdisciplinary collaboration and clear support pathways are needed so that the needs of young adults with cancer can be recognised early and addressed in a comprehensive way.

The message of the publication is clear: the education of healthcare professionals can make a meaningful difference in the early recognition, support and care of young adults with cancer.

At Kapa3, this approach is a core principle of our work. Before every intervention and every support action, there is education, information and empowerment of the people who stand beside patients.

Kapa3 professionals and collaborators are trained, informed and actively involved in European projects such as MELODIC, ensuring that the support provided is evidence-informed, human-centred and meaningful.

Kapa3’s active participation in such scientific initiatives strengthens its role as an organisation that connects research with practice, European knowledge with real patient needs, and education with everyday care.

We are proud of our participation in the MELODIC project and of our contribution to a European effort that highlights the importance of mental health, early recognition and targeted education in cancer care.

More information: https://lnkd.in/e9Pw4epy