Evaluation of a Mobile App to Promote Social Support for Oncology Patients

Evaluation of a Mobile App to Promote Social Support for Oncology Patients

Our study will evaluate patient and caregiver use of a new mobile application (app) to support patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

The app is designed to be used by the patient and members of their support network. It provides wide-ranging functionality, including: reminders for appointments and tasks, the ability to track health measures (fitness, emotion, pain, sleep), archive health related documents, maintain notes and recordings from visits, social networking functions to connect with family and friends to coordinate support activities and share news, and educational resources. We will randomize 230 patients initiating chemotherapy cancer treatment and up to one caregiver to the App group (asked to use the app once or more per week) or the Usual Care group, and evaluate the 3-month efficacy of app use on key outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• At least 18 years of age
• Patients must have a confirmed diagnosis of cancer and be prior to or within one month of initiating chemotherapy or immunotherapy
• Have a valid email address
• Have a smart mobile device (Android or iOS) with a data plan
• Willing to download and use the study app

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to communicate in English.