A new study shows that nearly half of patients see value in taking an active role in their care, even when they are dealing with a debilitating illness.
Navigating Cancer surveyed 295 cancer patients. The majority, 72%, was drawn to using personalized tools and resources to manage their care. More specifically, 77% was interested in reading cancer education materials from expert sources. Having online access to their medical records was a common interest of 74% of those surveyed.
Unfortunately, activities that involve more patient energy received less enthusiasm. Only 47% of those surveyed were interested in recording their symptoms and side effects during treatment in an online health journal, and only 46% were drawn to using an online guide to help them prepare for doctor visits.
Nevertheless, these data are evidence that nearly half of patients see significance in these activities and are willing to take a more active role in their care.
“Our survey confirms that cancer patients want to be engaged in their care and are comfortable using online technology to do so,” said Navigating Cancer CEO, Gena Cook. “We’re committed to working with oncologists to develop technology that makes it easier for patients to be engaged in meaningful ways so they can receive better quality care.”
Source: Navigating Cancer.