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Supportive Care in Cancer
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer 11/2018

01-11-2018 | Original Article

A telephone outcall program to support caregivers of people diagnosed with cancer: utility, changes in levels of distress, and unmet needs

Authors: Leila Heckel, Kate M. Fennell, Liliana Orellana, Anna Boltong, Monica Byrnes, Patricia M. Livingston

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 11/2018

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Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the utility of a telephone outcall program for cancer caregivers and to examine longitudinal changes in their distress levels and supportive care needs.

Methods

As part of the PROTECT trial, caregivers assigned to the intervention arm (N = 108) received three telephone outcalls from a Cancer Council 13 11 20 nurse at three time points (7–10 days post-randomization, 1 and 4 months later). During each call, caregivers were screened for distress using the Distress Thermometer (range: 0–10) then six supportive care issues were raised for discussion. Participants completed a utility survey 1 month post-intervention.

Results

The outcall program was highly acceptable and perceived as beneficial by caregivers. Overall, 95% reported it was worth their time to take part in the outcall program and 82% stated that the program was very relevant to them. Level of distress and impact of distress decreased over time (p = 0.0031, p < 0.0001, respectively). Average call duration decreased over time (p < 0.0001) and was longer for female than male caregivers (p = 0.0009). The frequency of caregivers discussing issues related to psychological distress (p = 0.0003), health literacy (p < 0.0001), financial (p = 0.0014), and practical concerns (p = 0.0121) decreased over time. Psychological distress was more often discussed by female than male caregivers (p = 0.0153), and family issues more often by younger (< 55 years) than older caregivers (p = 0.0071).

Conclusions

Utility of this outcall program was high. Caregivers’ level of distress and unmet needs decreased over time. Gender and age differences emerged, which warrants the need for tailored support. Further research is necessary to identify the best method of improving access to 13 11 20 services for caregivers.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
A telephone outcall program to support caregivers of people diagnosed with cancer: utility, changes in levels of distress, and unmet needs
Authors
Leila Heckel
Kate M. Fennell
Liliana Orellana
Anna Boltong
Monica Byrnes
Patricia M. Livingston
Publication date
01-11-2018
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 11/2018
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-018-4246-6

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