Lifestyle modification program (IM Healthy) for cancer survivors: Implementation of a reimbursable telehealth group program during the COVID-19 pandemic

We designed and pilot-tested a reimbursable lifestyle change program delivered via telehealth that was initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program (IM Healthy) focused on increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, and facilitating stress management and healthy behavior change. Retrospective chart review was used to collect data on IM Healthy participants from the period of Sept 2021 to Aug 2022. The program was offered three days each week with the same topic presented each day. Patients chose which day they attended. Meetings were primarily led by a health psychologist, with intermittent weeks led by a dietitian or physical therapist. Chart review provided demographics, group attendance, ESAS-FS, PROMIS10, weight, and BMI. Patient feedback regarding the telehealth program was collected approximately 6 months following the data collection period.

Patients (N = 50) mostly women (90%) with mean 57.9 years old (SD = 11.2) attended at least one group with an average of 13.1 (SD = 10.8; range = 1-45) attended sessions. Frequency of individual psychology sessions decreased after starting IM Healthy (z = - 2.17, p = 0.03). Overall, patients provided positive feedback including feelings of connectedness and physical and psychological benefit. Patients endorsed moderate to high perceived success in physical activity, nutrition, and stress management.

We demonstrate that a reimbursable lifestyle change group program can be tailored to telehealth and is well-received and beneficial to cancer survivors.