Implementation and Evaluation of Peer Ambassador Support to Patients Newly Diagnosed With Hematological Cancer and Their Caregivers.

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: To provide a comprehensive report on the development and implementation of peer ambassador support to patients newly diagnosed with hematological malignant disease and their caregivers within a clinical setting. Methods: The continued development and implementation of the peer ambassador support program took place between October 2022 and January 2024 at the Department of Hematology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet. Grol and Wensing's 5-step model of implementation guided the process. Results: This paper demonstrates the successful adaptation and implementation of the peer ambassador program and provides valuable insights into the enabling factors and obstacles encountered. In total, 48 peer ambassadors were recruited, and 27 patients and seven caregivers received support. Over 90% of patients and caregivers reported high satisfaction with the support, and the majority (70%) noted that the support improved their understanding and provided new insights into their disease and treatment journey. Conclusion: The development and implementation of the intervention are complex and demanding long-term processes that require applying theoretical knowledge, understanding patient and caregiver's experiences, and collaboration with the interdisciplinary team in clinical practice. Implications: This paper provides knowledge for implementing future peer ambassador support initiatives. It has potential transferability and value in a broader context for patients with life-threatening illnesses and their caregivers. Impact: It contributes to research and transparency in the development and implementation of evidence-based nursing interventions. It confirms that implementation of a peer support intervention is complex and requires theoretical knowledge, application of that knowledge, and interdisciplinary collaboration in clinical practice. Finally, it provides evidence-based knowledge applicable to the implementation of future peer support initiatives. Patient Contribution: Patients and their caregivers have been actively involved throughout the development and implementation of the peer ambassador support program. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03493906 and NCT04039100.