Co-designing Healthy Living after Cancer Online: an online nutrition, physical activity, and psychosocial intervention for post-treatment cancer survivors

Abstract

Purpose The aim of the present study was to co-design Healthy Living after Cancer Online (HLaC Online), an online intervention supporting cancer survivors to set and meet their healthy living goals. Methods Adapted from an initial telephone-delivered Healthy Living after Cancer program, wireframes (PDF black and white mock-ups) of the proposed online program were presented in a series of focus groups and interviews to our stakeholder group, which consisted of cancer survivors, oncology healthcare professionals, and representatives from cancer support organisations. Stakeholders were prompted for feedback on the wireframe and given end-user scenarios to encourage deeper engagement with the co-design process. Transcriptions underwent thematic analysis to determine which features of the program needed change or expansion. Results 27 participants took part in one of 8 focus groups or 10 interviews. Five themes were identified relating to (a) website design elements, (b) promoting and maintaining long-term engagement, (c) relatability and relevance, (d) navigating professional support, and (e) family and peer support. Recommended changes, such as simple activities and guidance videos, were integrated into the HLaC Online prototype. Conclusions Involving end-users in the co-design process ensured the intervention’s relevance and specificity to the needs of cancer survivors. Next steps include feasibility testing the prototype, prior to commencing a national randomised control trial of HLaC Online. Implications for Cancer Survivors HLaC Online aims to support cancer survivors to improve their quality of life by making healthy lifestyle changes in their physical activity, healthy eating, weight management, mental health, and fatigue management.

What are the mechanisms underlying the delivery of survivorship care information in Australia? A realist review

“…Additionally, digital platforms can facilitate the scheduling of appointments, offering convenience and flexibility, both for the survivor and service providers that engage with digital platforms 64 65 . Collaborating directly with survivors during the design process will ensure that their preferences and requirements are met effectively 65 .…”

“…64 To ensure the successful adoption and fulfillment of survivors' needs, the development of these digital platforms should follow co-design principles. 65 Collaborating directly with survivors during the design process will ensure that their preferences and requirements are met effectively. 65 However, as noted in Theory 6 (i.e., providing survivorship information in multiple modalities), it is important to note that these digital platforms should complement, rather than replace, traditional forms of survivorship information.…”

“…65 Collaborating directly with survivors during the design process will ensure that their preferences and requirements are met effectively. 65 However, as noted in Theory 6 (i.e., providing survivorship information in multiple modalities), it is important to note that these digital platforms should complement, rather than replace, traditional forms of survivorship information. For example, pamphlets and in-person consultations continue to play a valuable role in the overall provision of survivorship care, particularly for older persons or those with limited Internet access.…”

Implementing a PROACTive Care Pathway to Empower and Support Survivors of Breast Cancer

“…The primary study outcome was patient satisfaction and perceived usefulness of the proactive pathway, as assessed in the Patient Pathway Experience Survey. Following recommendations for sample size estimations for pilot studies [23][24][25] and mirroring similar pilot implementation studies, [26][27][28][29][30][31][32] a minimum of 50 answers to the overall survey were prespecified as needed to provide an initial assessment of patient experience/satisfaction. Pathway progression criteria were defined as at least 70% of the patients receiving the entire pathway reporting to be very satisfied or completely satisfied.…”