HematoCare: Feasibility of a Survivorship Care Plan for Hematologic Cancer Patients Undergoing HSCT

Survivorship Care in Patients With Hematologic Cancer Undergoing HSCT: A Feasibility Study on Quality of Life, Unmet Needs, and Caregivers Burden

This is a feasibility study to implement a Survivorship Care (SC) Plan for patients with hematologic cancer undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The study evaluates if the intervention is feasible within the Italian national health system, focusing on retention rates, quality of life, unmet needs and caregiver burden

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), whether autologous or allogeneic, is a cornerstone of modern haematological oncology, with the volume of procedures steadily increasing both globally and nationally. The rise in survival rates beyond 12 months has made the management of long-term survivorship an emerging clinical and epidemiological priority.Despite its curative efficacy, HSCT and associated cytotoxic treatments lead to late and chronic complications that cause significant functional, social and psychological impairment. Factors such as recurrent infections, prolonged isolation and reduced mobility have a negative impact on quality of life, functional capacity and fatigue levels. At the same time, informal carers (family members or friends) bear a significant caregiving and emotional burden that threatens their overall well-being.An integrated assessment of the needs of both the patient and the carer as the core unit of care is essential to provide adequate support. Although Survivorship Care (SC) is recommended for the systematic management of late effects, its implementation in structured and sustainable models within the National Health Service remains complex.This prospective, single-center, single-arm study follows patients from hospital discharge to 6 months post-transplant. The intervention consists of a personalized SC Plan including treatment summaries, follow-up recommendations, and referrals to supportive services. Data on feasibility, quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30), unmet needs (SCNS-SF34), and caregiver burden (CRA) will be collected at T0 (baseline), T1 (100 days), and T2 (6 months).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with hematologic cancer candidates for HSCT (autologous or allogeneic) and their informal caregivers
• Able to provide informed consent
• Able to communicate in Italian

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients or caregivers with comorbidities hindering participation (e.g., significant cognitive limitations)