Quality of Life in the Digital Age: Young Adult Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Patients and Healthcare Providers' Views of Telehealth

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic shifted the healthcare field from in-person clinic visits to virtual-based telehealth appointments. This study explores young adult (YA) hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patient and physician communication preferences and quality of life (QOL) implications for telehealth. Methods: One researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with n=10 YA HSCT patients and n=10 healthcare providers (HPs). HPs included physicians (n=5) and APP (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) (n=5). Interviews lasted approximately 10-15 minutes, were held over Zoom®, and were audio recorded. Interviews were professionally transcribed verbatim, and two independent researchers conducted a thematic analysis using Dedoose®. Results: Common themes that emerged included: 1) convenience; 2) improved communication; 3) technology issues; and 4) quality of life. Most patients (n=7; 70%) preferred in-person visits over telehealth, stating they chose the "social connection" and "engagement" associated with in-person visits. However, 50% of patients (n=5) referred hybrid appointments for check-in or follow-up visits. 80% of physicians (n=4) preferred telehealth visits stating it was "convenient," "timesaving," and improved "compliance." In contrast, all APP staff (n=5; 100%) preferred in-person visits, stating in-person improved "relationships" with patients and was more "convenient" than setting up their electronic devices for a telehealth visit. Conclusion: Providers differed in their preferences, with APP personnel preferring in-person visits compared to telehealth and HSCT physicians preferring telehealth or hybrid appointments. YA HSCT patients preferred in-person or hybrid clinic visits for non-necessary appointments.