Abstract PS1-04-20: A new comprehensive integrative care and navigation model for enhancing outcomes for Black breast cancer patients: evidence from the Care for HER program

Abstract Background: Care for HER is a campaign that serves Black breast cancer patients nationwide with free access to: 1) integrative care therapies and services, and 2) 24/7 culturally tailored patient navigation by Black nurses and social workers who are also breast cancer survivors. This study aims to evaluate program outcomes and satisfaction, as reported by program participants. Method: After participating in the Care for HER program, participants provided feedback online for multiple program evaluation metrics using a combination of scaled response questions: satisfaction and resource use (5-point scales), perceived benefits (4-point agreement scale and yes/no items), pre- and post-program distress (0-10 scale), and likelihood of recommending to others (0-10 scale). Descriptive and bivariate results are presented. Results: Between April and May 2025, 57 Black women completed the survey, with an average age of 52 (SD=9.1; range 33-71) and average time since diagnosis of 14 months (SD=11.6; range 6-71 months). Results show 98% report being satisfied or very satisfied with the wellness passport program of integrative care therapies and services, with the average likelihood of recommending to others a 9.4 out of 10; 93% of program participants report using resources provided (47% often or very often and 46% sometimes), and 7% rarely or never. As a result of the program, participants reported being better able to find support to reduce treatment side effects (75%) and reducing at least one aspect of financial strain (83%). Nearly all participants reported improvements in their health behaviors, with 95% saying they felt more motivated to make healthier food choices and 93% indicating a better understanding of the benefits of physical activity. Many also experienced gains in navigating the healthcare system and advocating for themselves: 89% reported a better understanding of the resources and services available to them, 88% felt better equipped to follow their treatment plan, and 84% felt more confident advocating for themselves in healthcare settings. Additionally, 69% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they were better able to understand their diagnosis and treatment options. Average distress score dropped from 6.6 before the program to 2.7 after, reflecting a 3.9-point decrease. Overall, 85% of participants reported reduced distress, 11% saw no change, and 4% reported an increase. High distress (scores of 8-10) declined from 39% to 0%, while those reporting no distress (score of 0) rose from 5% to 21%. Frequency of resource use was significantly associated with reduction in distress (F=4.252, p<.02), such that those who reported using available resources often or very often had the largest reduction in distress after program participation (M=-3.8), compared to those who only use resources sometimes (M=-3.0). Additionally, more frequent use was significantly correlated with satisfaction (r=.43, p<.001). Conclusions: Participation in the Care for HER program was associated with improvements in health behaviors, managing side effects, healthcare navigation, and understanding of diagnosis and treatment, as well as a notable reduction in distress, suggesting the program effectively supports practical and emotional well-being for women with breast cancer. Further, program satisfaction and perceived benefits were significantly correlated with frequency of resource use, indicating that greater engagement enhances program outcomes. Programs like Care for HER provide essential supportive services and empower patients to take a more active role in their cancer care. Expanding access is crucial, as patients—especially those from historically underserved communities—cannot obtain these services through traditional healthcare systems. Citation Format: S. Weldon, V. Worthy, R. Fairley, E. Powers, G. Kelly, J. Meakim, E. Fortune. A new comprehensive integrative care and navigation model for enhancing outcomes for Black breast cancer patients: evidence from the Care for HER program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-04-20.