Implementation of a Self-Management Support Program Among People With Kidney Transplant and Cancer Survivors in Israel: Testing Feasibility and Effects

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) in Israel to support adults living with chronic health conditions such as cancer or after kidney transplantation. This pilot study aims to test how feasible and acceptable the program is in this population, as well as its potential impact on improving patients' confidence, symptom management, health behaviors, and quality of life. The program was originally developed at Stanford University and is internationally recognized for helping people better manage chronic illness. Participants will join a six-week online group program with weekly 2.5-hour sessions led by trained facilitators certified in the CDSMP. The sessions focus on practical strategies like managing symptoms such as fatigue and pain, medication adherence, staying active, healthy eating, emotional coping, and communicating with healthcare providers. Participants will engage in goal setting and action planning, while also receiving support from peers facing similar health challenges. Throughout the study, participants will complete surveys before the program starts, immediately after it ends, and six months later to assess patient activation, health behaviors, symptom burden, and quality of life. A subset of participants will join focus groups to share their experiences and provide feedback on the program. The researchers will analyze these data to understand the program's benefits, barriers, and how it can be adapted for wider use in Israel's healthcare system. The study is expected to continue until 2027.

Testing the Feasibility of a Self-Management Support Program for Patient With Chronic Diseases in Israel