Exploring the experiences of cancer survivors with a mobile survivorship care plan application: a mixed-methods study

Background Survivorship care plans (SCPs) aid cancer survivors in transitioning from active treatment to long-term survivorship. Mobile health approaches to survivorship could enhance the effectiveness of SCPs. This study aims to better understand the perspectives and preferences cancer survivors have toward a mobile SCP application.Methods Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews among participants from the POST-Treatment Health Outcomes of Cancer Survivors (POSTHOC) randomized controlled trial, which delivered an SCP via an app or a static document. Exit interviews were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach. Then, responses were systematically categorized into structured variables for quantitative and mixed-methods analysis.Results Twenty-eight interviews were conducted among survivors who had recently completed curative treatment. Six key themes emerged: usefulness of SCPs, monitoring lifestyle behaviors and symptoms, lifestyle support, digital health, self-management and independence, and study support and design. Participant suggestions for feature customization and peer support highlight the need for SCPs to serve both physical and psychosocial needs.Conclusions Cancer survivors found the mobile SCP application beneficial for promoting healthy behaviors and enhancing symptom management, physical activity, and nutrition. With further advancements in mobile health technologies, the SCP can evolve into an adaptable and interactive tool that supports cancer survivors through transition to long-term survivorship.