“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.

Kapa3 Report for the First Half of 2026

As the first half of 2026 draws to a close, the Cancer Patient Guidance Center (Kapa3) continues to systematically expand its reach, thereby strengthening the system of care and information for both cancer patients and their caregivers.

During the first half of the year, the organization implemented a series of high-level initiatives and forged partnerships at both the national and European levels, thereby solidifying its position.

The organization’s activities got off to a strong start in January with the welcome of its European partners in the MELODIC Consortium project at a productive two-day workshop (January 19–20), hosted by the School of Public Health at the University of West Attica.

In early February, on the occasion of World Cancer Day, Kapa3 played an active role as a partner of René Descartes College in the webinar “Cancer, Patient Navigation & Health Management: From Prevention to Life Coordination.”

At the same time, significant initiatives were carried out in the local community, such as the “Knowledge Workshop in Megara—From Prevention to Life Coordination,” held on February 8 in collaboration with the Municipality of Megara.

In the area of scientific programs, the Cancer Patient Guidance Center, in collaboration with the Laboratory of Basic Health Sciences (EBEY) of the Department of Nursing at the University of the Peloponnese (PA.PEL), launched a series of online meetings running from February through June, focusing on mental health and nutrition.

The month concluded with the organization’s participation in the international conference “Mapping the Unknown in Oncology – From Hospitals to Homes, Mapping the Future of Oncology Care,” held on February 27 and 28.

March marked a strengthening of Kapa3’s “digital presence” with its official membership in the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC), a strategic move aimed at linking healthcare with technological advancements. As an extension of this collaboration, the organization participated in a closed-door members’ meeting as part of Athens Digital Health Week 2026.

On March 11, representatives of the organization attended the diaNEOsis event “Facing the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence” at the Lighthouse of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, while in the middle of the month, Kapa 3 played a prominent role in the scientific conference “Cancer in 2026: Challenges and Disruptions.” Furthermore, on March 19–20, the organization was represented at the 6th Western Macedonia Nursing Conference on the theme “Innovation and Empathy: Balancing Technology with Human Contact in Nursing.”

In parallel, the organization’s co-founder, Ms. Evangelia Bista, gave an interview on the show “All About Health” on Dion TV—which covered a variety of topics related to health, nutrition, autoimmune diseases, and more—the implementation of the free, 8-week Melodic pilot educational program began.

Kapa3’s scientific credibility was reaffirmed by the publication of the research paper “Person-First or Disease-First? Language Choices in Cancer Communication” in the journal *Nursing Reports*, as well as by Kapa3’s participation in the European project associated with Melodic, titled: “Educational Needs Regarding Mental Health of Professionals Working with Young Adults with Cancer: A European Survey,” which was also published; the organization also participated in the MELODIC Online Symposium 2026 on April 24, contributing to the dissemination of results in Greece.

May was marked by a strong outward focus and new collaborations, as the organization joined the European program Service Learning 2: 0:CoLab, was selected as one of six nonprofit organizations to receive financial support from the Alpha Bank-Match For Good initiative, and began its collaboration with the USTEP INSTITUTE.

At the same time, an awareness campaign was held in Soufli to highlight Kapa3’s activities; Ms. Bista gave an interview to iatronet.gr, and representatives of the organization participated in an international conference at the Medical School of the University of Coimbra in Portugal

Within the organization, the new Psychological Support team was established with great enthusiasm, while on the social media front, the Kapa3 team won six medals at the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Swim.

As the semester came to a close, June began with the signing of an official cooperation agreement with the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of West Attica, while partnerships were solidified with the non-profit organization “Karkinaki” and the PRAXI Network of the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) to strengthen international networking and access to modern funding tools.

Having completed five years of uninterrupted service in supporting cancer patients through digital guidance, Kapa 3 is entering a new era with the development of the innovative “Myrto” project. This is a pioneering Social Artificial Intelligence (Social AI) initiative in the field of care for cancer patients in Greece. “Myrto” will function as an advanced digital health and rights navigator (Patient Empowerment e-Navigator) for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals—a project for which the strategic partnership with SimasiaAi for its co-development was crucial. Finally, the first closed workshop of the MYRTO Al Health Innovation Lab was held for the “Myrto” application, with the support of René Descartes College.

The results of this first half-year clearly demonstrate that Kapa 3 serves as a link connecting innovation, scientific research, and the digital age in the field of oncology care. By combining academic knowledge, European partnerships, and technological development, Kappa 3 transforms every challenge into sustainable, people-centered solutions. Partnerships with leading organizations, investors, and partners who share the same values of social responsibility are also essential to realizing this vision, ensuring that every patient has immediate, reliable, and equitable access to healthcare and their rights.

The KAPA3 team stands steadfastly by patients and caregivers to provide guidance and safeguard their rights. For any information or support, please feel free to contact us.

You can contact the KAPA3 team

13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor (Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Phone Numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170.

Email: info@kapa3.gr

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.

There is an urgent need for psychological support for cancer patients. The KAPA3 team explains and advocates for this

There is an urgent need for psychological support for cancer patients. The KAPA3 team explains and advocates for this

Every day, healthcare professionals are called upon to communicate with, assess, and, above all, support people who are going through cancer.

Does cancer affect only physical health, or does it also have a profound impact on a person’s psychological, social, and emotional life? The needs that arise during the course of the illness are many and are often accompanied by the question: “What does the disease really bring to a person’s life?” A cancer diagnosis brings about significant changes in daily life, relationships, social roles, and the way a person perceives themselves and their future.

A cancer diagnosis is an extremely stressful event, often accompanied by feelings of fear, uncertainty, anxiety, and grief. At the same time, patients are called upon to cope with the effects of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Changes in physical appearance, fatigue, pain, and limitations in daily functioning can significantly affect their self-esteem and quality of life (Pitman et al., 2018).

Uncertainty regarding the course of the disease and the likelihood of relapse are significant sources of psychological distress. The extent of this phenomenon is reflected in the meta-analysis by Mitchell et al. (2011), which included 94 studies and more than 14,000 cancer patients. According to the results, 16.3% of patients met the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder, 10.3% for anxiety disorder, and 19.2% for adjustment disorder.

These data highlight that a significant proportion of cancer patients experience severe psychological distress, a fact that underscores the need for specialized psychological support.

Furthermore, cancer often affects an individual’s family and social relationships. The patient may be forced to limit or abandon professional and social roles, while the family is called upon to adapt to new demands and responsibilities, experiencing significant psychological strain of their own (Northouse et al., 2010).

Cancer patients have an increased need for psychological support, as the disease significantly affects their psychological, social, and emotional functioning. Fear of the disease’s progression, uncertainty about the future, the side effects of treatments, and the possibility of recurrence are major sources of psychological distress. At the same time, the experience of cancer is often accompanied by feelings of loss of control, fear, and emotional distress. The contemporary psycho-oncology literature recognizes that the early identification of psychosocial needs and the provision of appropriate interventions are an integral part of holistic oncology care (Caruso & Breitbart, 2020; Mehnert-Theuerkauf et al., 2023).

Within this context, psychological support is a key component of holistic care for cancer patients. Holistic care refers to a comprehensive approach that takes into account not only the patient’s physical needs but also the psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of their health. Counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups provide a safe space for expressing emotions and building psychological resilience (National Comprehensive Cancer Network [NCCN], 2024).

At the same time, they help improve adherence to treatment, strengthen cooperation with healthcare professionals, and maintain quality of life. As Holland and Weiss (2008) argue, psychosocial care is an integral part of high-quality oncology care, from diagnosis through the survival phase.

In conclusion, the experience of cancer is a complex and multidimensional process that affects every aspect of a person’s life. Managing the disease is not limited solely to physical treatment but requires the recognition and addressing of the psychological and social needs that arise at every stage. Providing timely and systematic psychological support can empower the patient, improve their ability to adapt to the demands of treatment, and contribute significantly to maintaining their dignity, hope, and quality of life. Psychological care should be regarded as a fundamental right of every cancer patient and as an integral part of modern oncology practice.

Coordination of Psychological and Social Services within the Framework of Psychosocial Care

The care of cancer patients is not limited to treating the disease and its physical effects. The needs that arise during treatment are often multifaceted and concern both the individual’s psychological well-being and practical, social, or financial issues that affect their daily life.

For this reason, effective support requires close collaboration among different healthcare professionals within a shared framework of psychosocial care. Within this framework, the Social Services and Psychological Services operate in a complementary manner, with the shared goal of enhancing the individual’s quality of life and overall adjustment to the experience of illness.

A client’s contact with the service can begin either through the Social Services Department or the Psychological Services Department. During the initial contact, an assessment of the client’s needs is conducted, and information is provided about all available support services.

Regardless of the initial request, the beneficiary is informed about the option of receiving psychological support, as the experience of cancer is often accompanied by heightened psycho-emotional needs that are not always apparent from the first contact. With their consent, an internal referral can be made to the Psychological Services Department for further evaluation and support.

The Psychological Services Department is responsible for the initial assessment, obtaining informed consent, and creating an individual support file. A structured series of sessions is then provided, tailored to the beneficiary’s needs. During this process, issues may arise related to social benefits, employment challenges, financial burdens, disability certification procedures, or other practical needs that significantly impact the daily functioning of the individual and their family. In such cases, and always with the beneficiary’s consent, cooperation with Social Services is initiated, and Social Services assumes responsibility for managing the relevant social and administrative matters.

The collaboration between the two services enables the timely identification of new needs and ensures continuity of care. Social Services focuses on the practical, social, and administrative aspects of support, while Psychological Services focuses on psychological resilience, emotional processing of the experience of the disease, and adaptation to the changes it brings about. The collaboration between the two services allows for a more comprehensive response to the needs of the cancer patient. In this way, a unified framework of psychosocial care is established that provides substantial support to the patient and their support network at all stages of their journey with the disease.

At the same time, regular communication and coordination between the two services allow for the timely identification of new needs and ensure continuity of care. The Social Services Department focuses on the practical, social, and administrative aspects of support, while the Psychological Services Department focuses on psychological resilience, emotional processing of the experience of the disease, and adaptation to the changes it brings about. The collaboration between the two services enables a more comprehensive response to the needs of cancer patients. In this way, a unified framework of psychosocial care is established that provides substantial support to the patient and their support network at all stages of their journey with the disease.

Kapa3 – Cancer Patient Guidance Center

Together, with knowledge, care, and a human touch.

https://www.kapa3.gr/epikoinonia/ by typing “Psychological Support” in the Message box

OR CALL

2105221424 – info@kapa3.gr

Athens: 13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor, (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) 6982003282

Kapa3 Cancer Patient Support Center and the USTEP Institute announce the launch of their strategic partnership

The Kapa3 Cancer Patient Support Center and the USTEP Institute announce the launch of their strategic partnership, aimed at providing meaningful support to cancer patients and promoting equal opportunities in scientific, social, and educational levels.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed in Athens on May 26, 2026, by Evangelia Bista, Co-founder and Head of Development and Operations at Kapa3, and Vasileios Stavrou, Co-founder and Scientific Director of the USTEP Institute.

As part of the collaboration, the two organizations will develop joint initiatives that include:

Organizing workshops and conferences focused on patient education, improving the quality of care, and strengthening the relationship of trust between patients and healthcare professionals.

The implementation of information and awareness campaigns on prevention, symptom management, and combating myths and social stigma surrounding cancer.

Collaboration on national and European programs aimed at developing innovative initiatives and actions with a social impact.

Conducting joint research and disseminating the results at the national and European levels.

This partnership reaffirms the two organizations’ commitment to actively contribute to the creation of a more supportive and inclusive environment for people living with cancer, by enhancing access to knowledge, information, and social empowerment.

The Memorandum of Cooperation is valid for one year, with the option to renew upon mutual written agreement by both parties.

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.

Participation in CA21152 – Implementation Network Europe for Cancer Survivorship Care

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

The Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 participated in the INE-CSC 2026 Conference, part of CA21152 – Implementation Network Europe for Cancer Survivorship Care (INE-CSC), held on 25–26 May 2026 at the Faculty of Medicine (Polo III), University of Coimbra, in Coimbra, Portugal.

The conference was held under the theme “The Next Chapter – Empowering Individuals, Families, and Society for Cancer Survivorship & Supportive Care”, highlighting the need for new approaches to cancer survivorship, supportive care and the translation of innovation into real-world impact for people living with and beyond cancer, their families and society.

Kapa3’s presence in Coimbra represents another important step in its European engagement and in its ongoing effort to connect everyday experience in supporting cancer patients in Greece with European knowledge, research, digital innovation and health policy.

A key highlight was the participation in a round table discussion on facilitators and barriers to the implementation of digital health tools in oncology. The discussion was co-organised by Aristea Kyriaki Ladas and Christos Frantzidis and brought together voices from different European countries and organisations, including representatives from Kapa3, Acreditar Portugal, Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro, ORCO / Madrid Regional Ministry of Health, as well as participants from Poland, Latvia and the United Kingdom.

Among the participants in the round table were Yannis Kontogiorgis and Despoina Pistiolis from Kapa3, Greece, contributing to the European dialogue on digital health, oncology navigation and the participatory development of solutions that respond to the real needs of patients and caregivers.

One of the key messages of the discussion was that digital innovation in oncology is not only a technological challenge. It is also a matter of policy, implementation, equity, trust and accessibility.

For digital tools to make a meaningful difference in cancer care and survivorship, they cannot remain isolated applications or pilot projects. They need to become part of real care pathways, be supported by appropriate policy environments, connect with interdisciplinary practice and be evaluated in terms of effectiveness, implementation readiness, accessibility, equity, sustainability and value.

The discussion also highlighted that digital tools must be designed around the real needs of patients and survivors, not only around technical possibilities. Accessibility across countries, languages, healthcare systems and levels of digital and health literacy must be built in from the beginning.

The role of patient organisations and cancer support communities was also identified as essential. These organisations can act as a bridge between technological innovation and the everyday reality of people affected by cancer. They understand the questions, barriers, fears and needs that are often not fully captured by formal care systems.

For Kapa3, this participation is directly linked to the development of Myrto, its digital health and rights navigator, designed as a tool for empowerment, guidance and support for cancer patients and their caregivers.

Myrto is not approached as a simple information tool. It is being designed as a participatory intervention built around the real needs of people with lived experience of cancer. It is connected to access to rights, social benefits, services, practical guidance and human escalation whenever needed.

The Coimbra experience strengthened the view that digital health must be human-centred, accessible, trustworthy and integrated into a broader ecosystem of care. Technology can meaningfully support cancer care only when it is designed with participation, trust, clear purpose and an equity-oriented approach.

Cancer survivorship is not only about completing treatment. It is about quality of life, mental health, social reintegration, work, family, everyday life, access to services and the feeling that no person is left alone after diagnosis or treatment.

Through its participation in European networks such as INE-CSC, Kapa3 continues to contribute to the dialogue on more equitable, participatory and person-centred cancer care. Care that uses technology without losing sight of the human being at its centre.

The future of cancer support will not depend only on better digital tools, but on better collaboration between patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, technology partners, patient organisations and policymakers.

For Kapa3, this is at the heart of its mission: transforming knowledge into action, technology into support, and the voice of patients into services that respond to their real needs.

More information: INE-CSC – Implementation Network Europe for Cancer Survivorship Care.More information:
https://inecancersurvivorship.com

Mapping the efficiency of cancer care in Greece: findings from the All.Can Greece report

Cancer care efficiency in Greece remains one of the most complex and pressing challenges for the Greek health system — not only in terms of its clinical burden, but also in how care is organized around the patient.

With approximately 63,000 new cancer cases diagnosed annually and more than 32,000 cancer-related deaths each year, Greece faces a steadily increasing oncological burden. Projections suggest that cancer incidence will rise by around 23% by 2040, further intensifying pressure on health services.

Against this backdrop, All.Can Greece has published a landmark report titled “Mapping the Efficiency of Cancer Care in Greece”, based on the pilot implementation of the All.Can Action Guide for Efficient Cancer Care.

Rather than simply describing the current situation, the report aims to measure it — identifying where efficiency is lost across the cancer care pathway and where targeted reforms could make the greatest impact.

Cancer care efficiency in Greece: delays in care delivery

One of the most critical findings of the report relates to delays in the patient journey.

Despite the existence of modern infrastructure and highly specialized oncology centres, significant delays persist between initial suspicion, diagnosis, and the start of treatment.

These delays are not the result of a single bottleneck, but of systemic fragmentation:

fragmented referral pathways,
limited coordination between levels of care,
and the absence of standardized clinical protocols.

A key structural weakness is the lack of systematic monitoring of waiting times and time-to-treatment indicators. As a result, inefficiencies remain partially invisible to the system itself, limiting the ability to implement targeted improvements.

Fragmentation across the care continuum

The report highlights a broader issue of fragmentation in cancer care delivery.

The patient journey from primary care to specialist oncology services is often not clearly structured or consistently coordinated. Referral pathways depend heavily on individual practice rather than standardized national protocols.

A major gap is the absence of structured patient navigation services. In practice, this means that patients and families are often left to navigate a complex system on their own, increasing delays and adding unnecessary psychological burden.

At the same time, multidisciplinary tumor boards represent a positive development, supporting collaborative clinical decision-making across specialties. However, systematic monitoring of their performance remains limited.

The development of Comprehensive Cancer Centers is identified as a promising step forward, although further regulatory strengthening and clearer governance structures are still needed to maximize their impact.

Patient-centered care: progress with remaining gaps

Greece has made notable progress in collecting Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) and Patient-Reported Experience Measures (PREMs), reflecting a growing commitment to integrating patient perspectives into care delivery.

However, patients’ access to their own clinical data remains limited, restricting their ability to actively participate in decision-making processes.

In addition, patient education and shared decision-making are not yet systematically embedded across the health system.

Another important gap concerns survivorship care. As cancer survival rates improve, the lack of structured long-term follow-up pathways leaves many patients without continuous support after active treatment ends.

Key policy directions

The report outlines several strategic priorities for improving cancer care efficiency in Greece:

Development of a comprehensive national cancer strategy with clear targets and governance mechanisms
Strengthening coordination across all levels of care
Implementation of standardized clinical pathways with defined time-to-treatment and quality indicators
Investment in oncology workforce capacity, particularly in shortage specialties
Establishment of structured patient navigation programmes
Acceleration of Comprehensive Cancer Center development
Systematic use of health data for monitoring performance and accountability
Greater patient engagement through PROMs, PREMs, and shared decision-making

Conclusion: a system with strong foundations but limited integration

Greece has many of the essential building blocks for a high-performing cancer care system — including infrastructure, clinical expertise, and emerging digital health capabilities.

However, the key challenge lies not in the existence of these components, but in their integration.

The All.Can Greece report highlights a system that is still operating in silos: strong individual elements that do not yet function as a fully connected care pathway.

In oncology, this lack of integration is not merely an organizational issue. It directly affects timeliness, patient experience, and ultimately outcomes.

The opportunity now lies in moving from fragmented capacity to coordinated care — where patients no longer have to bridge the gaps between system components themselves.

Source: Mapping-the-Efficiency-of-Cancer-Care-in-Greece-FINAL

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

MELODIC Online Symposium: completion of the pilot training phase and strengthening psychosocial cancer care

The European project MELODIC (Mental Health Support for Young Adults with Cancer), in which the Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 participates, is being implemented through distinct development phases. The pilot training programme for healthcare professionals is one of its core components, and within this framework, the MELODIC Online Symposium 2026, taking place on 24 April 2026, marks the completion of this educational phase.

The MELODIC project framework

MELODIC is a European project co-funded by the European Union, aiming to strengthen the mental health of young adults living with cancer, as well as to support their families. Through the collaboration of universities, research institutions and healthcare organizations across Europe, the project develops training and support tools for healthcare professionals.

More information about the project and its progress is available on the official Kapa3 website, in the dedicated project section.

The pilot training programme

The pilot training programme focused on enhancing the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals in providing psychosocial support to young adults with cancer and their families.

As part of the programme, online sessions and contact lessons were delivered, aiming to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and support the practical application of tools in everyday clinical practice.

MELODIC Online Symposium 2026

The MELODIC Online Symposium 2026, a two-hour event, brings together participants from all partner countries and includes:

opening presentations from the European Cancer Organisation and Youth Cancer Europe
an “experts by experience” panel, where individuals share their lived experience
a networking panel with healthcare professionals from participating countries
discussion on how training can be applied in clinical practice
a closing session by the project coordination team

From training to clinical practice

A key objective of the MELODIC training programme is to strengthen the psychosocial dimension of cancer care, with particular focus on young adults.

The exchange of experiences among healthcare professionals contributes to more holistic approaches to care and supports the integration of psychosocial support into daily clinical practice.

The role of Kapa3

Kapa3 actively participates in the European MELODIC consortium, contributing to the implementation of the training activities and the dissemination of results in Greece. Through this involvement, the connection between scientific knowledge and the support of cancer patients is further strengthened, promoting the development of practical approaches to psychosocial care.

The MELODIC Online Symposium 2026 marks the transition from the pilot training phase to the next stage of utilizing its outcomes, reinforcing the link between education and real-world application in cancer care.

The Press Release here: PRESS-RELEASE-MELODIC SYMPOSIUM

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

New National Patient Registry for Hospital-at-Home Care (NOSPI)

Patient care at home in Greece is becoming more organized and secure with the establishment of the National Registry of Patients Receiving Hospital-at-Home Care (NOSPI), as published in Government Gazette 1995/07.04.2026. The NOSPI program is already in pilot implementation at selected hospitals nationwide, with the goal of full development and operation by the end of 2026, including a digital platform and patient registry.

The new registry aims to systematically record patients receiving NOSPI services, ensuring that care is tailored to individual therapeutic needs. Patient groups eligible for inclusion include, among others, those with tracheostomies, on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, receiving long-term oxygen therapy, on parenteral or gastrostomy feeding, as well as those requiring intensive physiotherapy or mobility rehabilitation. Currently, enrollment primarily focuses on children with severe health conditions and chronically ill patients needing pulmonary care, in collaboration with pilot Reference Centers.

While the NOSPI program is already operating in a pilot phase, universal access for all patients in the country has not yet been achieved. Its development is gradual, with full operation—including digital infrastructure and registry-based documentation—planned by the end of 2026. Strengthening Hospital-at-Home care enables better monitoring and improvement of home care services for patients with long-term needs.

Through the registry, authorities can collect accurate and essential health data, enhancing the quality of services and supporting the design of targeted health policies. Implementation respects personal data protection in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring transparency and public trust.

For families and caregivers, patient enrollment in the NOSPI National Registry means access to more coordinated care, with support delivered directly to their homes. Furthermore, documentation helps evaluate and improve home nursing services, enhancing patient safety and quality of life.

This initiative, combined with the development of the digital platform and registry, aims not only to upgrade home care services but also to reduce hospital congestion and ensure high-quality services for all patients in the future.

Sources (text in Greek) : Government Gazette NOSPI, ODIPY

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3