Development of the ‘ACT now & check it out’ intervention to support patient-initiated follow up for Head and Neck cancer patients

Citation

Matheson L, Greaves C, Duda JL, Wells M, Secher D, Rhodes P, Lorenc A, Jepson M, Ozakinci G, Watson E, Fulton-Lieuw T, Mittal S, Main B, Nankivell P, Mehanna H, Brett J & behalf of the PETNECK2 research team o (2023) Development of the ‘ACT now & check it out’ intervention to support patient-initiated follow up for Head and Neck cancer patients. Patient Education and Counseling, 119.

Abstract
Objective: Current Head and Neck cancer (HNC) follow-up models are considered sub-optimal at detecting recurrences. We describe the development of a patient-initiated follow up (PIFU) trial intervention support package, to support HNC patients to engage in PIFU self-care behaviors. Methods: An intervention mapping approach, informed by evidence synthesis, theory and stakeholder consultation, guided intervention development. Data sources included a patient survey (n = 144), patient interviews (n = 30), 7 workshops with patients (n = 25) and caregivers (n = 3) and 5 workshops with health professionals (n = 21). Results: The intervention (‘ACT now & check-it-out’) comprises an education and support session with a health professional and an app and/or a booklet for patients. The main targets for change in patient self-care behaviors.