One-to-one peer support in cancer care: a review of scholarship published between 2007 and 2014

Abstract

The primary goal of this review was to determine whether one-to-one peer support programmes benefit cancer patients. The secondary goal was to assess the quality of the research methodology and of the peer programme description as reported in original research studies. MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases were systematically searched in order to identify relevant studies published between May 2007 and July 2014. Eligible articles were evaluated using pre-existing criteria based on the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials Statement Checklist. This review included 13 studies: four randomised controlled trials, one non-randomised comparative study and eight one-group descriptive studies. All studies reported high participant satisfaction with the peer support intervention, and the majority noted positive outcomes regarding psychological adjustment. The quality of the description of the peer support programmes as well as the research methodology of the studies was rated as fair. Methodological weaknesses included biased recruitment strategies and limited information regarding peer volunteers, non-users of peer support and those who withdrew from support programmes. One-to-one peer support programmes have the unique advantage of being a low-cost intervention approach, but also showing potential for relieving the health-care system by reallocating some aspects of the cancer care to community settings. Future research should address the methodological weaknesses in study design and reporting.

Peer support opportunities across the cancer care continuum: a systematic scoping review of recent peer-reviewed literature

“…Across the cancer care continuum, PS has emerged as an important strategy to address many barriers to cancer prevention [28], early detection [29,30], treatment [22,31], and survivorship [31,22]. Peer supporters often work with patients and/or health care providers to address system-level barriers, such as fragmented care, financial constraints, other practical challenges (e.g., transportation, employment concerns, child care), and communication difficulties [32,25].…”

“…Peer supporters often work with patients and/or health care providers to address system-level barriers, such as fragmented care, financial constraints, other practical challenges (e.g., transportation, employment concerns, child care), and communication difficulties [32,25]. PS programs in cancer have been shown to increase patient satisfaction; improve psychological adjustment, such as increased hope and decreased emotional distress; and increase skills and knowledge to cope with cancer, such as decision-making [22,31,33]. Despite growing evidence on the effectiveness of PS programs [34], research is needed about how PS is being applied across the cancer care continuum, how PS is being delivered and for whom, and where opportunities exist for extending the reach and scope of PS.…”

Exchanging narratives—A qualitative study of peer support among surgical lung cancer patients

“…In a review of peer support in cancer care, Meyer describes how one‐to‐one peer support typically involves a cancer survivor, who can provide emotional and informational support to a current cancer patient (Meyer, Coroiu, & Korner, ). The majorities of the included studies reported how one‐to‐one peer support programmes has a positive impact on psychological well‐being, help decision‐making skills and rebuild hope.…”

“…Meyer et al. () suggest that in general, one‐to‐one peer support is understudied. Among patients with lung cancer, a review by Luszczynska shows how quality of life increase with social support by healthcare professionals and family (Luszczynska, Pawlowska, Cieslak, Knoll, & Scholz, ), but the impact of social support from peers is unknown.…”

A qualitative exploration of race‐based differences in social support needs of diverse women with breast cancer on adjuvant therapy

“…By leveraging experiential support, prior literature suggests that adopting and encouraging peer mentorship programs leads to greater satisfaction and fulfillment of needs . Thus, women might also benefit from one‐on‐one peer mentors to fully capitalize on empowering experiential support. Women with limited social networks and fewer personal resources may especially benefit from experiential peer support .…”