Telemedicine in cancer care is increasingly vital in delivering oncology services as a solution to enhance patient access, improve experiences, and accelerate clinical research. This week’s new research summary examines two studies, from tracking the rise of remote patient monitoring (RPM) technologies in clinical trials to exploring cancer patients’ perspectives on virtual consultations. These findings explore the evolving landscape of telemedicine in cancer care now and in the future.
Increasing Adoption of Remote Monitoring Technologies in Oncology Trials
A recent survey study published in JAMA Network provides insights into current and future aspirations for telemedicine and RPM technologies in oncology clinical trials. The Bloomberg New Economy International Cancer Coalition study surveyed 8 biopharmaceutical companies representing 33% of the global oncology market.
The key findings reveal that the adoption of telemedicine in cancer care is on the rise. Across nearly all remote monitoring technologies surveyed, the biopharmaceutical companies reported recent increases in adoption, driven by factors such as increased competition for patients, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and innovations in technical solutions.
Oncology Trials – Telemedicine in Cancer Care
Certain telemedicine technologies were more widely adopted than others in oncology trials. Electronic diaries and electronic clinical outcome assessments were the most widely adopted remote monitoring tools, with mean adoption rates of 56% and 51%, respectively across all clinical and oncology trials. However, the adoption of other telemedicine technologies like local imaging facilities and local physician networks was much lower, at around 10% or less.
The survey respondents expect the adoption of telemedicine in cancer care to increase over the next 5 years. For 8 out of the 11 technologies surveyed, a 40% or greater increase in adoption is anticipated. The researchers identified telemedicine, digitally enabled recruitment, and the use of local imaging and physician networks as the most effective for enhancing the patient experience and improving access to oncology clinical trials, in the long term.
These findings underscore the growing momentum behind adopting telemedicine in the oncology field. By leveraging remote monitoring innovations, the industry aims to create more accessible, less burdensome, and more inclusive clinical trial experiences for cancer patients, ultimately accelerating the development of new therapies.
Patient Perspectives on Telemedicine in Cancer Care
A separate study published in Telemedicine and e-Health examined telemedicine in cancer care, specifically patient experiences and communication behaviors during tele-oncology consultations compared to in-person appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers conducted a survey and follow-up interviews with 158 cancer patients to better understand the impact of telemedicine on the patient-clinician relationship and communication.
The majority of respondents (76%) felt that communication during tele-oncology visits was equal to in-person appointments. Additionally, 13.5% rated telemedicine in cancer care as better than in-person. Patients cited positive aspects of tele-oncology, including the ability to more easily gain information from clinicians.
However, the study also identified some potential drawbacks of the telemedicine experience from the patient standpoint. 12.4% of respondents felt tele-oncology was worse for eye contact, and 29.4% were dissatisfied with virtual waiting room times. Qualitative themes showed telemedicine in cancer care was seen as comparable to in-person, but also introduced uncertainty with the digital platform and a potential lack of personal connection.
Overall, the researchers concluded that patient-centered communication behaviors were largely viewed as equally prevalent in tele-oncology and in-person visits. However, addressing challenges with the technology and virtual experience is needed to further improve the patient experience with telemedicine in cancer care.
Understanding Telemedicine in Cancer Care
These two studies provide valuable insights into the current state and future outlook for telemedicine in cancer care. The findings reveal a significant increase in the adoption of remote patient monitoring technologies across oncology clinical trials. At the same time, the patient survey data suggests tele-oncology can be an effective tool for maintaining strong patient-clinician communication, with the majority of cancer patients reporting an equal or better experience compared to in-person visits.
As the oncology community continues to optimize telemedicine solutions, these studies highlight the importance of understanding both the benefits and need to enhance virtual care from the patient perspective. By addressing technological and experiential challenges, healthcare providers can work to ensure high-quality, patient-centered telemedicine in cancer care is delivered.
