Integrating Structured Peer Support Pathways for Patients Undergoing Cellular Therapies: Insights from a Participatory Study

TL;DR

This study explores how trained peers can provide structured emotional and practical support to blood cancer patients undergoing cellular therapies, improving their care experience.

Contribution

The paper introduces Canada's first structured peer support program tailored for patients receiving cellular therapies.

Findings

Trained peers can address emotional, social, and practical challenges faced by patients undergoing cellular therapies.

Clear role definitions, training, and tools are essential for effective peer support implementation.

The program promotes continuity of care and enhances patient understanding of their treatment.

Abstract

Individuals diagnosed with blood cancers treated with cellular therapies experience intense stress and frequently report insufficient personalized emotional support. To respond to these needs, our team co-designed a structured support program in collaboration with patients, healthcare professionals, and subject matter experts. At the heart of this program are Accompanying Patients (APs, patients accompagnateurs in French)-trained peers who have lived through cancer and are positioned to provide guidance and support throughout critical stages of care. In discussions with 16 stakeholders, we examined patient support needs, the contribution of APs, and the key conditions required for program implementation. Thematic analysis revealed that APs can play a crucial role in addressing emotional, social, and practical challenges, enhancing patients’ understanding of treatment, and fostering continuity of care. Participants also highlighted the need for well-defined roles, comprehensive training, and access to appropriate tools. This initiative marks a pioneering effort in Canada to explore the integration of peer support within the context of cellular therapies.

Individuals diagnosed with hematological cancer often face an emotionally demanding journey, frequently reporting high levels of distress and unmet needs, including a lack of personalized and emotional support. Our research team co-developed structured support provided by trained Accompanying patients (APs) during key stages of the care pathway for individuals with hematological cancers treated with cellular therapies. This paper presents findings on the anticipated needs that APs can address, their role within the care team, and the key facilitators, challenges, and strategies needed to implement structured peer support. Using a participatory action research approach, three working sessions were conducted with 16 key stakeholders to co-develop the structured support pathways. Data from group discussions (n = 3) underwent thematic analysis to identify essential components for adapting the support offered by APs, as well as the barriers and facilitators to its implementation. Findings show that APs can help address a wide range of practical, emotional, social, and psychological needs while enhancing patient understanding and continuity of care. Participants emphasized the importance of clear role definitions, adequate training, and supportive tools to ensure the safe and effective involvement of APs. Organizational and communication challenges were also identified, along with strategies to promote long-term sustainability. This initiative represents the first structured peer support program tailored to cellular therapies in Canada and offers a promising model to improve patient experience, foster relational continuity, and support cancer survivors across the care continuum.

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