Implementing an Evidence-Based Breast Cancer Support and Communication Tool as Standard Care

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session and Reception
  In Interactive Paper Session: Health Communication Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

While many women turn to the Internet to obtain information, it is unlikely that unstructured internet use provides optimal benefit to women newly diagnosed with breast cancer, due to uneven quality, conflicting claims, redundancy, and search engine idiosyncrasies which may make finding information difficult. To answer the need for information and support, an Interactive Cancer Communication System ("CHESS") was developed to provide access to integrated information for decision-making, behavior change, and emotional support, and has been validated in randomized trials. This research reports on the process of achieving implementation in real-world settings at two Denver healthcare systems. This observational case study reports on the process of real-world implementation and the barriers and facilitators of integrating CHESS into standard care. Results from this study provides guidance for implementation of other programs in large organizations.

Authors

• Alanna Kulchak Rahm, Geisinger Health System

• Robert P. Hawkins, U of Wisconsin - Madison

• James W. Dearing, Michigan State University

• Suzanne Pingree, U of Wisconsin

• Jana Bolduan Lomax, Exempla Saint Joseph Hospital

• Helene McDowell, U of Wisconsin

• Erica Ferro Morse, Kaiser Permanente

• Breanne Barela, Kaiser Permanente Colorado