The Effect of a Digital Health Coaching Program on Patient-Reported and Healthcare Utilization Outcomes of Women With Breast Cancer

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of a digital health coaching (DHC) program on global health, symptom burden, quality of life, healthcare utilization, and financial toxicity. SAMPLE & SETTING: 254 adult women undergoing active treatment for breast cancer at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. METHODS & VARIABLES: Participants were randomized to a six-month usual care or DHC program, which included weekly calls from a health advisor, unlimited patient-initiated communication, and digital delivery of health-behavior content. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were collected at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Linear mixed models were used to assess intervention effects. RESULTS: Participants were enrolled from August 2019 to December 2022. Quality of life, symptom severity, and financial toxicity improved in both groups, whereas symptom interference worsened. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Oncology nurses should monitor PROs among women undergoing active treatment for breast cancer. Further research is needed to understand the effects of DHC on PROs.