Adaptation and Evaluation of a Symptom-Monitoring Digital Health Intervention for Patients With Relapsed and...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Digital Health
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) is a cancer requiring systemic treatment with significant symptom burden.
• Electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) interventions show promise in oncology but lack evidence in RRMM.
• Digital health recommendations emphasize iterative development for reproducibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the acceptability and appropriateness of an ePRO intervention for RRMM patients.
• Assess the impact of an ePRO intervention on clinic workflow.
• Explore iterative development for digital health interventions in RRMM.

Main Methods:

• 11 RRMM patients used a mobile app for weekly and ad hoc symptom reporting.
• Intervention involved automated alerts and guidance based on predefined thresholds.
• Qualitative and quantitative methods assessed study endpoints.

Main Results:

• 9 patients completed the study; 83% of weekly sessions were completed.
• Patients found the app easy to use and reporting frequency acceptable.
• Providers noted issues with alert refinement and workflow integration, suggesting modifications.

Conclusions:

• The ePRO intervention is acceptable and appropriate for RRMM patients.
• Workflow integration challenges were identified, with recommendations for improvement.
• Iterative implementation involving stakeholders is crucial for successful adoption and improved care.