Background
Prostate cancer (PC) is common and can be overwhelming for patients. Choosing the right treatment, like surgery or radiation, is tough. Many patients look for support from others who have been through similar experiences. Online support groups (OSGs) have gained importance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Study Objective
This study explores how patients with newly diagnosed PC use traditional face-to-face support groups (F2FGs) and OSGs. We wanted to see if OSGs are more helpful for making treatment decisions and if doctors recognize their value.
Methods
We analyzed data from a trial comparing an online decision aid to a printed brochure for patients with nonmetastatic PC. We surveyed 687 patients from 116 urology practices in Germany, both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients shared their experiences with support groups and their feelings about treatment decisions.
Results
Before COVID-19, only 2.3% of patients attended F2FGs, and none did during the pandemic. OSG usage remained steady, with about 24% of patients using them. Those who used OSGs reported higher anxiety and depression levels, but 38% found them helpful for decision-making. Only a small percentage of OSG users regretted their treatment decisions compared to non-users. Doctors were often unaware of patients using OSGs and underestimated their usage.
Conclusions
Doctors know more about F2FGs than OSGs, but many patients find OSGs beneficial. One in four patients used OSGs, and a significant number found them helpful for making treatment choices. There is a need for more research to better understand how peer support can aid patients, especially those struggling with anxiety and depression.
Opportunities for Improvement
Define Measurable Outcomes
Set clear goals for understanding how patients use OSGs and how it affects their treatment decisions.
Select AI Tools
Choose AI solutions that can help track and analyze patient support group usage and outcomes.
Implement Step by Step
Start with a pilot project to test AI solutions and monitor their impact on patient support and treatment decisions.
Contact Us
For AI solutions in medical management, reach out to us:
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