In 1983, a group of passionate and visionary pediatric oncologists founded the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO). Today, inspired by the children and families whose lives we strive to improve, we champion childhood cancer care on behalf of the childhood cancer community.
POGO’s purpose is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with cancer and their families by providing equitable access to the best possible care—from state-of-the-art diagnosis, to the most advanced treatments and systematic follow-up through AfterCare—ensuring children across Ontario’s vast geography have the greatest prospects for survival with an optimal quality of life.
POGO is the official source of advice on childhood cancer to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care; a trusted source of information among colleagues, parents, survivors and the public; and the long-standing leader of a collaboration among the five academic pediatric oncology programs and other stakeholders, which has resulted in a highly integrated childhood cancer system.
POGO provides both leadership and support for regular, province-wide consultations that generate Provincial Pediatric Oncology Plans (PPOPs). This has resulted in long-range plans (1988, 1994 and 2006, and a progress update in 2011) that have been enormously effective in shaping and coordinating childhood cancer care in Ontario. With the wisdom and insights of our many stakeholders, and at the request of Ontario’s Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC), POGO is now leading the development of a five-year provincial plan for 2017 – 2022. PPOPs are widely recognized as the definitive system plans and have been endorsed by MOHLTC. Read more.
Informed by our own unique database, expert analyses and the input of thought leaders, POGO delivers advice, recommendations and strategies; ensures implementation of solutions; and provides ongoing support and update for childhood cancer programs. Together, these contributions ensure evolution of the childhood cancer care system in response to constantly changing demands. POGO’s programs have been deployed nationally and internationally and our work is published in peer-reviewed journals.
POGO receives core funding from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. An engaged and supportive donor base provides additional funding for POGO research and family shield services, and granting agencies support the work of a focused POGO Research Unit.
“Thanks to POGO’s outstanding work, Ontario children in need have access to the most modern diagnostic treatment and cancer care services.”
– Hon. Deb Matthews, Deputy Premier, President of the Treasury Board and Minister Responsible for the Poverty Reduction Strategy; former Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission and vision for pediatric cancer care.
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Our Board & Committees
Members of our board and committees are leaders in their field.
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Our Partners
POGO collaborates with many in the pediatric cancer community to improve the lives of children with cancer.
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Privacy
POGO values and protects personal health information.
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History & Milestones
Over the past 30 years, POGO has transformed the landscape of childhood cancer care.
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Reports
Donor reports, financial statements and other reports provide insight into how POGO, our partners and supporters are making an impact.
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Newsroom
Find media releases, videos and other news.
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Job Opportunities
Rewarding job opportunities can help you make a difference in the lives of children with cancer.
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Accessibility
POGO is compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
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Staff List
Get to know who does what at POGO.
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