Design considerations for family-centered health management

Abstract

Blood and marrow transplantation (BMT) is an intensive therapy for patients with life-threatening hematologic cancer as well as non-cancer diagnoses. Children, adolescents and young adults undergoing BMT ("pediatric patients") experience intensive medical procedures during their treatment and post-treatment recovery phases. We conducted a field study to identify common barriers that interfere with pediatric patient engagement in the management of their health and challenges that caregivers confront. Our study revealed four main factors. By exploring emerging themes, we suggest design opportunities for health technology to support patients and their caregivers over the course of long-term outpatient management.