A Peer Support Intervention in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT): The STEPP Proof-of-Concept Trial.

Background: Although peer support interventions are associated with improved patient-reported outcomes in diverse cancer populations, structured peer support programs tailored to the needs of patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are lacking.

Objective: This single-arm, proof-of-concept trial aimed to refine the Supporting Transplant Experiences with Peer Program (STEPP), a structured, five-session, manualized, phone-delivered peer support intervention for patients undergoing HSCT, informed by qualitative feedback from patients.

Study design: Adult patients with hematologic malignancies scheduled to undergo allogeneic or autologous HSCT were eligible to participate in the study approximately two weeks prior to their HSCT hospitalization. Participants received the STEPP intervention, which focused on providing informational, emotional, and practical support. To refine the intervention, we conducted semi-structured qualitative exit interviews to gather feedback on the content of STEPP and to identify facilitators and barriers to engagement. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using rapid analytic methods by two coders.

Results: Of the 37 eligible patients, 25 enrolled in the study, 20 completed all intervention sessions and 20 completed exit interviews. Participants highlighted that discussions with peer mentors/STEPP interventionists about the transplant journey and processing information provided by the clinical team were the most valuable aspects of STEPP. Positive experiences during the first intervention session facilitated patient engagement with the program. Potential barriers to engagement included logistical challenges in connecting with interventionists while experiencing physical symptoms during inpatient hospitalization and being paired with an interventionist who had a different cancer diagnosis and/or type of transplant.

Conclusions: Patients undergoing HSCT reported positive experiences with the structured five-session, phone-delivered peer support intervention administered before and during the HSCT hospitalization. Patients' descriptions of barriers and facilitators to engagement with the STEPP intervention underscore the importance of patient input and programmatic structure in peer support interventions for this population. Insights from this proof-of-concept trial will be incorporated into future trials of STEPP to improve outcomes in HSCT recipients.