Telehealth Use in Rural North Carolina Counties: Perceptions Among Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Although many studies highlight the benefits of incorporating telehealth into oncology care, few have investigated how it could reduce geographic barriers to care for patients with acute myeloid leukemia living in rural communities. Identifying perceptions of telehealth among this population may help increase accessibility, frequency, and duration of care. This qualitative study sought to foster mutual learning in academic and local oncology care settings. Results indicate that patient preferences for telehealth and its use vary, highlighting the importance of a patient- and community-centered approach.

At a Glance

• Nurses can serve as patient advocates and care coordinators to improve collaboration among National Cancer Institute (NCI)–designated cancer centers and local care teams.
• To evaluate telehealth as a platform for patient care by NCI-designated cancer centers, nurses can assess patient preferences, financial or geographic barriers to care, and complex needs.
• There is a need for patient and provider telehealth education on quality assessment, symptom management, and digital systems, as well how it can be used alongside local oncology care.