The advancement of eHealth interventions has opened new avenues for healthcare providers to address psychological concerns in patients remotely. One such intervention is the FoRtitude program, designed to reduce fear of recurrence (FoR) in breast cancer survivors through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and telecoaching. This blog post delves into the findings of the FoRtitude randomized trial and explores how practitioners can leverage these insights to enhance their skills and improve patient outcomes.
Understanding Fear of Recurrence
Fear of recurrence is a common concern among breast cancer survivors, affecting nearly half of them with intrusive thoughts and anxiety that can persist long after treatment. Managing FoR is crucial as it impacts the quality of life and can lead to increased healthcare utilization.
The FoRtitude Intervention
The FoRtitude trial evaluated an eHealth intervention that included CBT strategies such as relaxation, cognitive restructuring, and worry practice, alongside telecoaching through motivational interviewing. The study involved 196 breast cancer survivors who were randomly assigned to different intervention components.
Key Findings
- The intervention led to statistically significant reductions in FoR among participants.
- There was no significant difference between CBT and health management content (HMC) in reducing FoR.
- Telecoaching improved adherence and retention in using the eHealth platform.
- Increased self-efficacy was associated with reduced FoR.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners can draw several lessons from the FoRtitude trial:
- Incorporate eHealth Solutions: With the growing need for remote healthcare solutions, practitioners should consider integrating eHealth interventions like FoRtitude into their practice to reach more patients effectively.
- Focus on Self-Efficacy: Enhancing patients' confidence in managing their condition can lead to better outcomes. Practitioners should focus on strategies that boost self-efficacy alongside traditional therapies.
- Utilize Telecoaching: Telecoaching has shown promise in improving patient engagement and adherence. Incorporating motivational interviewing techniques can be beneficial in maintaining patient interest and commitment.
- Pursue Further Research: The trial highlights the need for continued research into optimizing eHealth interventions. Practitioners should stay informed about emerging studies and consider participating in or conducting research to further refine these tools.
Conclusion
The FoRtitude trial underscores the potential of eHealth interventions in managing psychological concerns like fear of recurrence among breast cancer survivors. By embracing these innovative solutions, practitioners can enhance their skills, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to the evolving landscape of remote healthcare.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Targeted eHealth Intervention to Reduce Breast Cancer Survivors’ Fear of Recurrence: Results From the FoRtitude Randomized Trial.
