Barriers and facilitators of optimal engagement with teleoncology for older cancer survivors: A rapid review of qualitative literature

Background Introduction: The prediction of global cancer incidence, combined with improved cancer survival rates, an ageing population and healthcare transformation towards digital health, present a variety of challenges to both healthcare providers and older cancer survivors. Digital health, also referred to as eHealth, mHealth or remote monitoring (‘teleoncology’ in cancer care) has rapidly grown in recent years, enabling health services to move towards treating people in the community. Although most people possess devices to accommodate this, evidence of the experiences of older cancer survivors with teleoncological interventions is limited in current literature. Aim: To investigate older cancer survivors’ experiences and perceptions of teleoncology and determine the barriers and facilitators for optimal engagement.MethodsA rapid review of qualitative literature was carried out to identify older cancer survivors’ experiences with teleoncology. Three databases (CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science) were searched for qualitative studies. Data synthesis was undertaken using thematic synthesis and the Critical Appraisal Skill Programme (CASP) checklist was applied to critically analyse the quality of the included studies.ResultsNine studies met the inclusion criteria. The synthesis generated three themes: (1) Factors influencing engagement with teleoncology, (2) Value of eHeath education and (3) Individual preferences for teleoncology interventions. Older cancer survivors are willing to make use of teleoncology in a blended approach to their care, not replacing face-to-face cancer care. eHealth education is highly valued within this target group and continued efforts are needed to address this.ConclusionsThis review identified both barriers and facilitators regarding factors for optimal engagement, eHealth education and individual preferences, which would facilitate future research and enable development of eHealth tools to include the needs of older cancer survivors. Addressing the barriers and utilising the guidance presented by the facilitators, would ensure the benefits of teleoncological services in geriatric oncology.Legal entity responsible for the studyThe authors.FundingHas not received any funding.DisclosureAll authors have declared no conflicts of interest.