Optimising ovarian cancer care: An embedded mixed methods evaluation of a national nurse-led telehealth program.

PURPOSE: A nationwide nurse-led telehealth case management program was established providing personalised supportive care to individuals and families experiencing ovarian cancer. The program was evaluated using the RE-AIM framework. This paper focuses on the effectiveness findings of the evaluation.

METHODS

Using mixed methods design, participants completed four surveys over 12 months assessing symptom burden, psychological distress, supportive care needs, quality of life, and self-efficacy. Service experiences were further explored through interviews.

RESULTS

Of the 652 individuals enrolled in the program, 112 (17%) participated in the evaluation. Predominant baseline moderate to severe symptoms were fatigue (65%); anxiety (56%); and sleep issues (50%). Key unmet needs included: uncertainty about the future (54%); fear of cancer spread (48%); and anxiety (42%). 43% reported high distress; 27% lacked confidence self-managing fatigue, 23% self-managing distress. All participants received symptom and needs assessment; 80% received information support, and one-third accessed specialised psychosocial care. Those with greater symptom burden, distress, lower quality of life and self-efficacy at baseline received more services. Over 12 months, overall wellbeing and satisfaction with information improved significantly. 30 interview participants consistently valued the program for: being seen and heard as a whole person; trusted information and advice; meaningful emotional support; and flexible and timely services.

CONCLUSION

Participation in this nurse-led telehealth program was associated with improved outcomes and positive experiences among individuals with ovarian cancer who are at high risk of poorer outcomes. These findings support continued investment in person-centred tailored supportive care delivered via telehealth prioritising emotional wellbeing, symptom management, and quality of life.