The Effect of a Digital Health Coaching Program on Patient-Reported and Healthcare Utilization Outcomes of Women With Breast Cancer.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of a digital health coaching (DHC) program on global health, symptom burden, quality of life, healthcare utilization, and financial toxicity.

SAMPLE &

SETTING

254 adult women undergoing active treatment for breast cancer at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

METHODS & VARIABLES: Participants were randomized to a six-month usual care or DHC program, which included weekly calls from a health advisor, unlimited patient-initiated communication, and digital delivery of health-behavior content. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were collected at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Linear mixed models were used to assess intervention effects.

RESULTS

Participants were enrolled from August 2019 to December 2022. Quality of life, symptom severity, and financial toxicity improved in both groups, whereas symptom interference worsened.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Oncology nurses should monitor PROs among women undergoing active treatment for breast cancer. Further research is needed to understand the effects of DHC on PROs.