Web-Based Advance Care Planning for Patients With Advanced Cancer

Advance care planning (ACP) is a process that enables individuals to understand and communicate their values, goals, and preferences regarding future medical care. ACP is particularly important for patients with advanced cancer, who may face complex decisions regarding life-sustaining treatments and end-of-life care. However, ACP participation remains limited, and innovative approaches are needed to improve patient engagement.

This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based ACP intervention in reducing preferences for aggressive life-sustaining treatments among patients with advanced cancer. The intervention was developed to provide accessible ACP education and information regarding the Patient Right to Autonomy Act in Taiwan.

A single-blind randomized controlled trial design was used. A total of 110 patients with stage III or IV cancer were recruited and randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 55) or a control group (n = 55). Participants in the intervention group received a web-based ACP educational program in addition to a Patient Right to Autonomy Act leaflet, whereas participants in the control group received the leaflet alone.

Outcome assessments were conducted at baseline (T1), immediately after the intervention (T2), and one week after the intervention (T3). The primary objective was to determine whether the web-based ACP intervention reduced preferences for aggressive life-sustaining treatments. The study also examined factors associated with treatment preferences and medical decision-making.

The findings of this study may contribute to the development of accessible ACP interventions and support informed decision-making among patients with advanced cancer.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosed with advanced cancer (stage III or IV)
• Aged 18 years or older
• Able to communicate fluently in Mandarin Chinese or Taiwanese
• Able and willing to provide informed consent
• No cognitive impairment
• Have access to Internet-connected electronic devices at home
• Have not previously received advance care planning (ACP) consultation
• Have not completed an advance directive (AD)

Exclusion criteria

• No access to Internet-connected electronic devices at home
• Unable to operate Internet-based electronic devices
• Previous participation in ACP consultation or completion of an AD
• Cognitive impairment
• Severe physical or psychological symptoms that would interfere with participation in the study
• Concurrent participation in another intervention study
• Refusal to participate