How technology can improve communication and health outcomes in patients with advanced cancer: an integrative review

Objective Patients facing an advanced cancer diagnosis require clear communication with their clinicians. Technology has been utilized in many different capacities to navigate communication in cancer care, but few authors examine the specific areas of communication from a theoretical perspective. The purpose of this literature review was to (1) identify articles focused on technology-based communication strategies to improve health outcomes in individuals with advanced cancer, and (2) using Epstein and Street's framework, identify areas in which technology-based communication has been used to improve health outcomes, and (3) identify gaps that exist in technology-based communication care in patients with advanced cancer. Methods A systematic search was conducted which returned 446 articles. Using Epstein and Street's 2007 framework, the final sample was 39. Results Nine clinical trials, 29 observational studies, and 1 case study were identified. The articles were categorized into one area within Epstein and Street's areas of communication. Many of the articles examined the patient's and provider's acceptability and feasibility of technology-based methods of communication, while other articles examined their efficacy. Conclusions While research studies were identified in each of the areas of communication, the majority of technology-based communication strategies were focused on the exchange of information between patients and their providers. Further research and the development of technology-based communication interventions assessed through clinical trials are needed in the areas of healing relationships and making decisions in cancer care. Additionally, the communication strategies found effective at improving health outcomes in advanced cancer should begin implementation into clinical practice, therefore reaching more patients.

Automated summary

The aim of this literature review was to explore the role of technology-based communication strategies in health outcomes of patients with advanced cancer. Using Epstein and Street's framework, 39 articles were identified and categorized into different areas of communication. The majority of the articles focused on the feasibility and efficacy of technology-based information exchange between patients and providers. It was found that there is a need for more research in the areas of healing relationships and decision-making in cancer care.