Open AccessOutcomes of a randomized controlled trial assessing a smartphone A pplication to reduce unmet needs among people diagnosed with C anc E r (ACE)
Author(s) -
Livingston Patricia M.,
Heckel Leila,
Orellana Liliana,
Ashley David,
Ugalde Anna,
Botti Mari,
Pitson Graham,
Woollett Anne,
Chambers Suzanne K.,
Parente Phillip,
Chirgwin Jacqueline,
Mihalopoulos Cathrine,
Lavelle Barbara,
Sutton Jennifer,
PhippsNelson Jo,
Krishnasamy Mei,
Simons Katherine,
Heynsbergh Natalie,
Wickramasinghe Nilmini,
White Vicki
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
cancer medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.403
H-Index - 53
ISSN - 2045-7634
DOI - 10.1002/cam4.2718
Subject(s) - medicine , randomized controlled trial , intervention (counseling) , cancer , smartphone application , smartphone app , physical therapy , mhealth , family medicine , gerontology , psychological intervention , nursing , multimedia , internet privacy , computer science
Background Smartphone technology represents an opportunity to deliver practical solutions for people affected by cancer at a scale that was previously unimaginable, such as information, appointment monitoring, and improved access to cancer support services. This study aimed to determine whether a smartphone application (app) reduced the unmet needs among people newly diagnosed with cancer. Methods A single blind, multisite randomized controlled trial to determine the impact of an app‐based, 4‐month intervention. Newly diagnosed cancer patients were approached at three health service treatment clinics. Results Eighty‐two people were randomized (intervention; n = 43 and control; n = 39), average age was 59.5 years (SD: 12.9); 71% female; 67% married or in a de facto relationship. At baseline, there were no differences in participants’ characteristics between the groups. No significant effects, in reducing unmet needs, were demonstrated at the end of intervention (4‐month) or 12‐month follow‐up. Overall, 94% used the app in weeks 1‐4, which decreased to 41% in weeks 13‐16. Mean app use time per participant: Cancer Information, 6.9 (SD: 18.9) minutes; Appointment Schedule, 5.1 (SD: 9.6) minutes; Cancer Services 1.5 minutes (SD: 6.8); Hospital Navigation, 1.4 (SD: 2.8) minutes. Conclusions Despite consumer involvement in the design of this smartphone technology, the app did not reduce unmet needs. This may have been due to the study being underpowered. To contribute to a meaningful understanding and improved implementation of smartphone technology to support people affected by cancer, practical considerations, such as recruitment issues and access to, and confidence with, apps, need to be considered. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registration (ACTRN) Trial Registration: 12616001251415; WEF 7/9/2016.