FYNN—Support Program for Patients Who Have Completed Head and Neck Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Treatment for head and neck (H&N) cancer can induce significant emotional and physical stress. Upon completion of treatment, patients are at risk for isolation, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, they cope with treatment side effects that have not resolved or are permanent, that is, a part of their “new normal”. Support groups and peer mentoring can benefit those with significant oncologic issues. However, strategies for the unique population of H&N cancer patients are not well documented. Our team designed a group seminar series to address their needs in the posttreatment setting. The program is modelled after the Finding Your New Normal (FYNN) series developed for cancer survivors at our facility. It is offered twice yearly and consists of a 5-week series, meeting once a week in the evening. Enrollment is open to patients and their caregivers who have completed treatment and limited to 16 attendees to facilitate an intimate atmosphere for sharing. Guest lecturers scheduled for specific sessions include a nurse practitioner survivorship specialist, radiation oncologist, dietician, speech language pathologist, physical therapist and psychologist. Representatives from a local YMCA and college attend and discuss, respectively, the Livestrong and Trail to Recovery programs offered by their institutions. A break-out session for patients and caregivers is included to allow them to meet in separate groups. In these safe environments, they reflect upon their respective experiences with peers. Sessions are co-facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker and the H&N oncology nurse navigator. Clinician presentations are brief to allow time for questions and round table discussions. Attendees fill out surveys following each of the 5 sessions to provide feedback and a final program evaluation. Since the initiation of H&N FYNN in 2016, 3 programs have been held with an average enrollment of 13 attendees. Survey results indicated the following rates of “strongly agree” for the four outcomes that were evaluated: Learned new information to deal with cancer experience: 83%; Better able to cope with cancer experience: 79%; Have an outlet to better handle stress: 76%; Feel that experience with H&N FYNN helps to live a better quality of life: 76%. Recurring themes of learning from each other, giving and receiving support, and an overall feeling of connection to the other participants were expressed in the comments. Addressing emotional stressors, as well as treatment-related toxicities, is a key aspect of survivorship for H&N cancer patients. Our FYNN series is rated highly by patients for improving their ability to cope posttreatment. It serves as a model for H&N cancer patients and can be customized for patients with other malignancies.