ACS CARES: A digital approach to supporting health information and social needs among people with cancer and caregivers.

Abstract

548 Background: ACS CARES (The American Cancer Society Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support) is the first nationwide non-clinical navigation program for people with cancer and caregivers. ACS CARES is a multi-channel approach providing direct, individualized, non-clinical assistance through a native app, telephonic or in-person support. Here we examine preliminary feasibility and acceptability of digital navigation through the ACS CARES app. Methods: The ACS CARES app became available for download on June 1, 2023. It includes sociodemographic and cancer-related questions, and a health information and social needs assessment adapted from the NCCN distress thermometer and problem list. Based on patient or caregiver responses, the app curates information and resources tailored to each user’s cancer journey and endorsed concerns. The aim is to deliver timely information to reduce distress, resources to mitigate social determinants of health, and emotional support to improve the cancer experience. Results: In the first three weeks, 349 people downloaded the app and 231 individuals (45% people with cancer, 55% caregivers) created profiles. Users represented 39 different cancer types across all stages, with 54% currently receiving treatment. Users are 75% white, 11% Hispanic, 63% female, with an average age of 55 (SD: 15). 11% of users are military/veteran, 15% rural, and from 43 states and US territories. The average initial distress screening was 4.0 on a scale of 0-10. Practical concerns were most frequently endorsed (n = 380, 36%). Cancer or health-related information was the most frequently endorsed practical concern with information on ‘Treatments, medications, procedures, and other therapies’ being the most common health information need. Fatigue, and worry, anxiety or fear were the most frequently endorsed physical and emotional concerns, respectively. Virtual support from someone with a similar cancer experience was the most commonly endorsed social concern. Users have accessed 357 health information or social needs resources in the app. Conclusions: Preliminary data suggest feasibility and acceptability of using a native app to access information and resources for cancer support. ACS has targeted efforts planned to support diverse user engagement. Peer support within the app and in-person support at four pilot cancer centers will begin in September.