Digital Solutions for bEtter cAre
The 'Digital Solutions for Better Care' study is exploring how a new online platform called Althea can improve cancer care. It's for anyone affected by cancer, including patients of all ages, those who have survived cancer, their family members, friends, and professional carers. Even doctors, nurses, and mental health specialists who work with cancer patients are involved. The study aims to understand how this digital platform can meet the needs of all these different groups. Researchers will gather information from participants about their experiences with cancer and healthcare, to help develop and test this new digital tool, ultimately hoping to make cancer journeys easier and better for everyone involved.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called 'Digital Solutions for Better Care', is all about creating and testing a new digital tool, similar to a website or app, named Althea. The main idea is to make life easier and provide better support for everyone touched by cancer. This includes people currently living with cancer, those who have finished their treatment, their family members and friends who provide care, and even the doctors, nurses, and counsellors who look after cancer patients.
The researchers want to understand what these different groups need from a digital platform. For example, a patient might need information about their condition, while a caregiver might want advice on how to support their loved one, and healthcare professionals might be looking for ways to connect with patients or share resources. By listening to all these experiences, the Althea platform can be designed to be truly helpful.
The overall aim is to improve the care and support available for people during and after their cancer journey. By using modern technology, the study hopes to offer new ways to manage information, connect with others, and provide support from diagnosis all the way through to recovery, making the experience less stressful and more organised for everyone involved.
Key takeaways
- It's about making better online tools for cancer support.
- Open to patients, survivors, families, and healthcare staff.
- Your experiences help shape future cancer care.
- No new medicines or treatments are involved.
- A chance to have your voice heard and make a difference.
- You can stop participating at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to a wide range of people impacted by cancer. This includes adults who have been diagnosed with cancer, either recently or in the past, and children aged 12 and older with a current or past cancer diagnosis.
Family members and friends who care for someone with cancer, whether an adult or a child under 12, are also invited to take part. Healthcare professionals, like doctors and nurses who work with cancer patients, or teachers of children with cancer, can also join.
To take part, everyone must be able to understand and speak English well enough, and be able to provide their permission to join the study after understanding what it involves. It's important that participants don't have severe memory problems or mental health issues that would make it difficult for them to understand or participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Do you have a current or previous cancer diagnosis (if adult or child 12+)?
- Are you a family member or friend caring for someone with cancer (including children under 12)?
- Are you a healthcare professional working with cancer patients or teaching children with cancer?
- Can you understand and speak English well?
- Can you give your permission to join the study?
What does participation involve?
This study is about gathering thoughts and experiences, so it doesn't involve any new medications or treatments. Your involvement will likely include sharing your opinions and experiences, perhaps through answering questions or joining group discussions called 'focus groups'. These discussions help the researchers understand what people need from the Althea platform. You won't need to visit a clinic for this study, and the researchers will tell you exactly how long your participation might take and what is involved.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (5)
- Centre François BaclesseVerified postcodeCaen, France· Recruiting
- Saarland UniversityVerified postcodeHomburg, Germany· Not yet recruiting
- European Institute of OncologyVerified postcodeMilan, Italy· Not yet recruiting
- National Cancer InstituteVerified postcodeVilnius, Lithuania· Not yet recruiting
- Catalan Institute of OncologyVerified postcodeBarcelona, Spain· Not yet recruiting
Common questions
What is the Althea platform?
Althea is a new digital tool, like a website or app, being developed to provide better support and information for people affected by cancer.
Who can take part in this study?
Adults or children (aged 12+) with a cancer diagnosis, family members/carers, and healthcare professionals working with cancer patients can take part.
Do I need to take any new medication?
No, this study does not involve any new medications or treatments. It's about sharing your experiences and ideas.
How long will I be involved for?
The researchers will provide details on the specific time commitment when you are invited to participate.
What if I change my mind about participating?
You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, without giving a reason, and it will not affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Gabriella Pravettoni, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.