A pilot videoconference group stress management program in cancer survivors: lessons learned
Eric S Zhou1, Ann H Partridge2, Jaime E Blackmon3
1Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. eric_zhou@dfci.harvard.edu.
Rural and Remote Health
|June 16, 2016
Summary
A videoconference-based psychosocial program for cancer survivors showed feasibility and desire for telehealth, but modest stress reduction and challenges like technical issues and disconnection require improvements for future interventions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychosocial Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Cancer survivorship presents significant adjustment challenges.
- Psychosocial interventions are proven effective for improving post-treatment adjustment.
- Telehealth offers a potential solution to overcome barriers in accessing psychosocial support for rural cancer survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the experiences of delivering a group-based videoconference psychosocial program to cancer survivors.
- To identify the benefits and challenges associated with the design and implementation of this novel telehealth intervention.
- To assess participant satisfaction and perceived stress reduction.
Main Methods:
- A four-session cognitive-behavioral stress program was delivered to 14 cancer survivors.
- The first session was in-person, with subsequent sessions conducted via group videoconference on loaner tablets.
- Participants received a tailored ebook and completed feedback and perceived stress measures.
Main Results:
- Participants, many from rural areas, valued the videoconference format due to travel burdens.
- While content and techniques were well-received, improvements in perceived stress were modest.
- Challenges included feelings of disconnection, focus difficulties, technical issues, and a desire for a longer program.
Conclusions:
- Group-based videoconference psychosocial programs are feasible and desired by cancer survivors.
- Telehealth delivery requires proactive management of technological and interpersonal challenges to maximize efficacy.
- Future iterations should incorporate improvements to address participant-identified limitations and enhance intervention impact.
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