The Effectiveness of Patient-Centered Digital Empowerment Programs in Hematological Cancer Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND

Hematological cancers impair patients' quality of life (QoL) due to prolonged and complex treatments. Digital empowerment programs enhance patient engagement by supporting symptom management and psychosocial well-being.

AIMS: This study was conducted to examine the effects of patient-centered digital empowerment programs on hematological cancer care.

METHODS

As part of this study, a comprehensive search was conducted in nine databases and the gray literature in March 2025. The screening included randomized controlled trials without any time restrictions. This study adhered to the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist. Fixed-effect and random-effect models were used in the meta-analysis. Cochran's Q chi-square test and I2 statistic were applied to assess heterogeneity. Data analysis was performed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) 3 software.

RESULTS

A total of seven studies were included in this meta-analysis. Patient-centered digital empowerment programs were found to have moderate and positive effects on depression (Hedges' g = 0.27, p < 0.001), distress (Hedges' g = 0.28, p < 0.001), self-efficacy, and QoL (Hedges' g = 0.22, p < 0.001). There was no significant effect on fatigue levels in patients with hematological cancers (p = 0.27), suggesting that digital empowerment programs may not be effective in managing fatigue. The results of the sensitivity analysis support the robustness and reliability of the study findings.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION: Digital empowerment programs may serve as a moderately effective tool in improving depression, distress, self-efficacy, and QoL among patients with hematological cancers. However, they exhibit limited effects on physical symptoms, particularly in fatigue management. Therefore, more comprehensive and multidisciplinary interventions are needed to address the management of physical symptoms effectively. Patient-centered digital empowerment programs enable early intervention by assisting healthcare professionals in symptom tracking. Digital solutions enhance care processes by improving patient education, psychosocial support, and self-management skills.