Connected health in cancer survivorship: Evaluating the usability and utility of the cancer thriving and surviving programme in Ireland.

BACKGROUND

Cancer survivorship care has become increasingly complex, with a growing population of people living with and beyond the disease requiring holistic support and follow-up. Connected health (CH) offer a promising solution to enhance care delivery.

AIM

This study evaluated the usability and effectiveness of CH, and motivations of participants in the Cancer Thriving and Surviving (CTS) programme in Ireland.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey of persons living with and beyond cancer (PLWBC) who completed the CH-delivered CTS was conducted between December 2022 and April 2023. Closed and open-ended questions captured participants experiences and motivations. Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ) assessed the CH usability. Qualitative content analysis examined recurring themes in participant responses.

RESULTS

Forty-four participants who engaged in CTS completed the survey. Participants were predominantly female (88%), diagnosed with breast cancer (76%), and had third-level education or higher (86%). Slightly over one third (36%) were in full time employment. Motivations for engaging in CTS included seeking peer support, psychosocial assistance, and practical self-management tools. Most respondents agreed that the programme improved their psychological wellbeing (90%), quality of life (76%) and helped them take more control of their health (83%). TUQ scores indicated high usability of the CH systems.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that the CH-delivered CTS programme effectively benefits PLWBC, improving psychological well-being and quality of life. The high CH system usability and positive user experiences highlight its potential to complement in-person care, supporting the continued development and evaluation of CH systems to enhance cancer survivorship, particularly within Irish digital health initiatives.