Study: Computer-Based Patient Support Systems Benefit Young and Disadvantaged

Computer-based patient support systems may benefit younger breast cancer patients by providing information and social support and increasing their participation in health care, according to researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Researchers devised a study to assess the impact of a computer-based patient support system on the quality of life in younger breast cancer patients, with particular emphasis on assisting the underserved patient population.

Three of the 5 facilities participating in the study treated many underserved patients. In the randomized controlled study conducted between 1995 and 1998, researchers enrolled 246 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, all under 60 years old.

The group was given the Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System (CHESS), a home-based computer system providing information, decision-making, and emotional support. Pretest and 2 post-test surveys, at 2- and 5-month follow-up, measured aspects of participation in care, social/information support, and quality of life.

Researchers report in their study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine that at the 2-month follow up, the CHESS group was significantly more competent at seeking information, more comfortable participating in care, and had greater confidence in their doctor(s).

At the 5-month follow up, the CHESS group had significantly better social support and greater information competence. Researchers also report that CHESS benefits were found to be greater for the disadvantaged than the advantaged group.

Other Sources: Journal of General Internal Medicine