#United States #Plymouth Meeting #Cancer Care #JNCCN Study #Team-Based Approach

Human-Centric Approaches Outperform Technology in Cancer Support Care

A groundbreaking study published in the November 2025 issue of JNCCN—Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network has brought to light the advantages of a more human-centric approach to cancer care support. Unlike traditional technology-driven methods, the research emphasizes the significant impact of team-based strategies, where healthcare professionals work collaboratively with patients.

Overview of the Research

Conducted across 26 cancer clinics, the cluster-randomized trial compared the effectiveness of team-based versus technology-driven methods. Clinics ranged from academic facilities to community organizations, including veterans' affairs and safety-net hospitals. The researchers aimed to ascertain perceptions surrounding these different methodologies, ultimately leading to insights that could shape future cancer care protocols.

The study’s key finding showed that participants receiving team-based care overwhelmingly felt that this method would improve their overall patient experience. A striking 87.5% of participants from team-oriented clinics expressed optimism about patient care enhancement. In stark contrast, only 25% of those from technology-centric settings shared the same sentiment.

The Importance of Team-Based Care

One of the most notable aspects of the findings was the significant trust and satisfaction conveyed by patients regarding peer support and community health workers involved in their care. Participants in the team-based model reported a greater sense of support, highlighting the effectiveness of human interaction in addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients undergoing cancer treatment. Dr. Manali Patel, a senior researcher from the Stanford Cancer Institute, remarked, "The broad support for team-based models using community health workers was surprising, given the increasing reliance on technology to deliver supportive cancer care."

Moreover, the research illustrated that when patients engage in discussions about their goals, values, and preferences in treatment plans, they not only experience improved care but also contribute to long-term cost savings associated with healthcare services. By managing symptoms proactively, unnecessary hospital visits were significantly minimized, leading to a more efficient allocation of healthcare resources.

Financial Sustainability and Resource Allocation

Despite the promising outcomes, the survey indicated that only 31.3% of participants believed their centers had the necessary financial resources to continue and expand team-based supportive care. Many expressed concerns over the sustainability of these models, as only 37.5% felt adequately supported to enhance technology-based solutions beyond the scope of this particular study.

Conversely, data revealed that a willingness to adapt and embrace change was present among leadership in both the team-based (75%) and technology-focused (62.5%) groups. This openness may pave the way for an integrated approach to cancer care that leverages both technology and human interaction.

Bridging Technology and Team-Based Care

Dr. Loretta Erhunmwunsee, Vice President of City of Hope, provided insight into the implications of this study. She stated, "This study suggests that in supportive cancer care, technology alone may not be the answer to effective symptom management and advance care planning." Dr. Erhunmwunsee called for an evolution in cancer care strategies that prioritize strong, equity-driven, team-based systems, emphasizing the continuation of relationships and improving patient experiences throughout their journey.

This evolving narrative redefines the landscape of cancer support care, suggesting a pathway that integrates both human-centered interactions and technological advancements, thus ensuring comprehensive and equitable treatment solutions for patients in need.

Conclusion

As cancer care continues to evolve, the insights gathered from this JNCCN study could have far-reaching implications for how healthcare providers prioritize resource allocation, training, and patient interaction. By fostering a culture that values team-based methods, we might see not only an improvement in patient care but also a reduction in long-term healthcare costs, ultimately redefining what supportive care looks like in the context of oncology. For more information, visit JNCCN.org.