Evaluating the feasibility of a peer-support group for patients with cancer (presently).

Abstract

12101 Background: Many patients with cancer experience significant mental health challenges (commonly depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders) which can impair quality of life and treatment adherence. Despite this, few seek mental health care due to barriers such as stigma, limited resources, and lack of suitable programs. We sought to determine the feasibility of “Presently”, a novel, trauma-informed, virtual, peer-support program for patients regardless of cancer type or treatment, facilitated by trained cancer survivors. Methods: An 8-week pilot was implemented at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco, allowing self-enrollment. Demographic and clinical utilization data were collected from one year prior to the program through its completion (9/1/23–11/1/24). Post-program evaluation included surveys and participant feedback sessions. Results: Of 42 self-enrolled patients, 31 (74%) attended at least one session, averaging 4 sessions per participant. Most attendees were female (87%) and white (68%). Mental health comorbidities were prevalent, with 59% having an active diagnosis and 34% prescribed psychotropic medications. Participants represented diverse cancer types: breast (32%), lymphoma (24%), genitourinary (21%), gastrointestinal (10%), leukemia (7%), lung (3%), and pre-cancerous (3%). Disease stages varied: 38% local, 24% locally advanced, and 38% metastatic. Nearly half (48%) were undergoing active treatment. In the year prior, attendees utilized more healthcare services, including 157% more oncology and 10% more primary care visits than non-attendees. Participant feedback was positive: 65% found Presently very effective in providing emotional support and 64% were highly likely to recommend it to others. Most participants (82%) found support from peers meaningful, with 71% appreciating staff facilitation and 59% valuing opportunities to help others. All non-attendees expressed interest in future participation. Conclusions: The Presently program demonstrated feasibility in supporting patients with diverse cancer diagnoses, stages, and mental health histories. Positive participant feedback underscores the potential for novel peer-led models to address the increasing mental health needs of patients with cancer. Future research will investigate clinical outcomes and potential reductions in healthcare utilization through larger-scale implementation.