Camilla Zimmermann

Administrative Assistant: Maria Hoffmann, maria.hoffmann@uhn.ca 

If you're interested in working with Dr. Zimmermann, please contact Nadia Swami (nadia.swami@uhnresearch.ca).

Research Synopsis

Our research team is studying theoretical, empirical, and methodological aspects of measuring the effectiveness of specialized palliative care. This involves developing and testing potential models for the provision of palliative care, as well as validating existing measures of palliative care effectiveness and creating new ones. A particular focus is the early involvement of palliative care services in the outpatient setting. Funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), we have conducted trials of Symptom screening with Targeted Early Palliative care (STEP), versus usual care, in patients with advanced cancer and are planning a further trial of virtual STEP. Additionally, we are conducting a CIHR-funded multicentre mixed methods study using ICES data and qualitative interviews to examine the impact of COVID-19 on cancer care at the end of life. Funded by the Canadian Cancer Society and CIHR, we are also conducting a multicentre randomised trial of a joint psychological and physical symptom intervention to improve patient well-being and symptom control in patients with acute leukemia.