Psychological Support for Cancer Patients
This study focused on helping cancer patients who struggle with adjustment disorders through a special psychological program. Here’s what we found:
Study Overview
We looked at 59 cancer patients, dividing them into two groups: one received the psychological support program, and the other did not. The program included:
- Psychoeducation: 1-4 sessions
- Additional support: Up to 6 sessions for each of the two extra modules if needed
Measuring Outcomes
We measured:
- Psychological distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
- Mental adjustment to cancer
- Health-related quality of life
Patients completed these measures at the start of the study and again after 3 and 6 months.
Results
The program did not show a significant reduction in psychological distress compared to the control group. However, both groups experienced some improvement over time. The estimated cost of implementing this program for 14,430 patients could range from 7 to 28 million euros annually.
Conclusion
While the program did not show clear benefits in this study, there were challenges, including difficulties in recruiting participants due to the COVID-19 pandemic. More research is needed to better understand how to effectively support cancer patients with adjustment disorders.
Next Steps for Clinics and Patients
- Identify clear goals for psychological support based on this study’s outcomes.
- Consider using AI tools to assist in managing patient needs effectively.
- Start with a pilot project to test new strategies and monitor results closely.
Contact Us for AI Solutions in Medical Management
For more information, connect with us: