Abstract
AIM: This study will test the feasibility and effectiveness of mobile technology intervention on the patients' self-management of oral anticancer medication. Secondary objectives include acceptability, the usefulness of text messages, and satisfaction by participants and nurses. METHODS: This prospective two-arm study will recruit patients (N = 220) with metastatic breast cancer and initiating treatment with palbociclib (Ibrance ®). Allowing for attrition, patients will be randomized into the control (N = 100) or intervention (N = 100) group. Unidirectional text message reminders will be sent during the treatment cycle through a secure web application using the patient's smartphone. Self-reported survey responses will be collected at three time points; at consent, end of treatment cycles, and the follow-up clinic visit and include a demographic questionnaire, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire, Post study questionnaire and the R-15 Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire. Nurses providing care for study patients will complete the Adaptation of Stamps Nurse Workload questionnaire. Data will be analysed an intent-to-treat analysis comparing the two arms. Study approval was obtained in December 2019 and funded in January 2020. DISCUSSION: Smartphones are globally available and have text messaging capability which is increasingly being used as an intervention in healthcare studies. This study will test a low-cost, nurse-led intervention that enhances the patient's experience with oral anti-cancer medications, improves access to care, reduces costs, and improves the satisfaction of nurses caring for oncology patients. IMPACT: Despite the ease of administering oral anti-cancer medications, oncology patients maynot take them as prescribed and consequently, these factors affect patient outcomes and disease control. Given the importance of taking oral anti-cancer medications and the difficulties patients experience in achieving it, the effective use of mobile technology interventions can actively engage patients in their care and improve medication self-management of anticancer treatment regimens.