Using journey mapping to understand the experience and need for patients with chimeric antigen receptor T-cell...

To map the journey and needs of patients receiving chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, providing a reference for improving the comprehensive management of patients receiving clinical CAR-T cell therapy, as well as enhancing patients' overall well-being.

A qualitative grounded theory approach was used. From August 2024 to January 2025, patients receiving CAR-T cell therapy at a university hospital in Wuhan, China, were enrolled through purposive sampling. The research data were collected from descriptive observation, focused observation, and selective observation. The data were analysed with open, axial and selective coding. Patient journey mappings were employed to visualize information regarding patients' experiences and needs.

Three main categories, seven subcategories and one core category were used to map the journey of patients receiving CAR-T cell therapy. The core category was curing the disease, and the main categories were complex physical journeys characterized by the struggle against discomfort as a side effect of treatment, individualized psychological journeys created by the hope of a cure and anxiety over side effects, the unpredictable physiological challenges and emotional upheavals inherent to progressively build multidimensional care needs. Patient journey mapping of patients receiving CAR-T cell therapy was designed.

The experiences and multidimensional care needs of patients receiving CAR-T cell therapy vary at different stages of treatment. Therefore, it is essential that health care professionals provide attention and support at these times. Patient journey mapping may contribute as a review and audit tool, or a mechanism for providing proactive patient-centred care.