Optimizing the Benefits of Self-Monitoring Among Patients With Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Patient-Centered Care
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Patient self-monitoring offers valuable patient-generated data.
• Current integration into clinical practice is limited.
• Lack of a standardized term hinders adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore oncology professionals' views on patient self-monitoring.
• To assess their experience and perceived feasibility of incorporating it.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for its implementation.

Main Methods:

• Interpretive, descriptive study design.
• Data collected via individual and focus group interviews.
• 38 oncology professionals (nurses, NPs, oncologists, PAs, radiation therapists) participated across four health systems and five cancer centers.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged regarding patient self-monitoring.
• Professionals recognize its potential beyond self-management for clinical decision support.
• Challenges include the lack of a universally adopted term and the need for revised patient education strategies.

Conclusions:

• Patient self-monitoring holds significant potential for informing clinical decisions.
• Adopting a standardized term is crucial for successful implementation.
• Revising patient education is necessary to ensure clinical utility and manage potential patient anxiety.