‘Living with’ prostate cancer: a digital health intervention to support patients and healthcare professionals

In the UK, prostate cancer is the most common cancer. Novel treatments and care models influence the needs of men affected. Despite improving clinical outcomes, these new approaches have left healthcare professionals (HCPs) with less time to support patients’ complex needs. Digital health interventions (DHI) can improve patient care. Our project adopted a multidisciplinary co-design approach to develop a DHI aimed at supporting prostate cancer patients’ needs. We anticipate that our DHI will decrease HCPs’ workload whilst leading to improved patient experiences and outcomes. A theory based, multi-disciplinary, co-design approach was used for DHI development. Key user needs were elicited using mixed methodology from our systematic review, patient focus group data (n=24) and HCP interviews (n=7). Data underwent qualitative analysis in the form of open, axial and selective coding using Corbin and Strauss’ ‘three lines of work’ model. Patient needs were grouped into overarching themes and translated into digital solutions by a team of prostate cancer patients, patient and public involvement (PPI), HCPs (Urologists, nurses, GPs, psychologist), researchers, IT specialists. Requirements derived from prostate cancer patient needs were transformed into the DHI development: A patient facing mobile app which connects to a clinician dashboard for direct messaging (appointments; relevant articles/videos) and collation of patient reported outcome measures (PROMS) inputted into the app. The app contains an up-to-date multi-reviewed content library covering a wide range of topics surrounding prostate cancer; a guided programme to support sexual wellbeing and pelvic floor exercises; shared experience from patients for patients; an appointment diary function; and a programme to manage and graph PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test appointments and results. The multidisciplinary co-design process of a DHI providing support for prostate cancer patients and HCPs has been described. A pilot study is planned to explore feasibility, acceptability and impact of the DHI. None