Promoting patient engagement in bladder cancer (BC) care through education.

Abstract

176 Background: BC is the 6th leading cause of cancer in the US and it is estimated that 81,190 Americans will be diagnosed this year. Promoting patient knowledge and involvement in BC care have led to successful management strategies. We offered 1 hour of online education to patients and their caregivers to provide clinical and supportive information that lends a sense of control, supports effective self-management, and promotes patient-physician communication. Methods: PlatformQ Health Education, in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, developed and executed an interactive education program for patients with BC and their caregivers, which was broadcast live online on cancercoachlive.com on September 29, 2017 and on-demand through March 29, 2018. The program was viewed on cancercoachlive.com by 587 learners and attracted 533 additional learners through social media channels (e.g. Facebook). Education focused on treatment options and the accessibility of resources and support. Self-reported surveys, distributed to patients and caregivers 8 weeks after the program, were analyzed for improvements in perceived engagement in their cancer care. Results: After participating in the education, a majority of the learners reported they felt knowledgeable on treatment options to discuss with their HCPs (92%, n = 60) and resources and information they can use for self-care strategies (88%, n = 58). Follow-up survey results (n = 60) also indicated that the education helped 50% of learners enhance their communication with their HCP. Moreover, 54% of learners (n = 48) felt more in control of health care decisions, and 36% of learners (n = 59) reported improvements in their health-related behaviors. Write-in examples focused on staying informed of treatments and side effects, seeking support, and proactively asking questions to their HCPs. Conclusions: As ASCO guidelines note, providing patients with preoperative information and encouraging them to take an active part in the decision-making process are essential elements to achieving positive outcomes in BC. Results from the patient survey indicate that participating in an interactive, online education program enhanced knowledge and promoted patient engagement in BC care.