A Qualitative Study of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Metastatic Breast Cancer Care

The COVID-19 pandemic substantially impacted the delivery of oncology care, particularly for individuals with metastatic cancers. The objective of this study was to qualitatively evaluate the impacts of COVID-19 on metastatic breast cancer (MBC) care among patients. This study consisted of 36 semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted virtually with people living with MBC, who were members of a patient support organization called Project Life. Project Life is an MBC patient-led, web-based wellness community. Responses were analyzed using Phronetic Iterative Analysis. Interviews were conducted from March 14, 2022, to May 31, 2022. Analysis from 36 individual in-depth qualitative interviews revealed the following themes during COVID-19: (1) variable preferences for telehealth (2) disruptions to care, (3) virtualization of social care. Wide variations existed in preferences surrounding telehealth, centered around ideas of convenience. Disruptions to care included delays to diagnostic care, isolation from caregivers, and interruptions associated with COVID-19 infection. These results call for adaptability in oncology care given wide-ranging preferences on telehealth and the shifting of available support services.