The concern that survivors expressed about the limited quality of feedback that they would receive via e-consultations is comparable to a study on patients’ experiences with web-based communication with their health professionals. Patients prefer e-consultation for specific purposes (e.g., prescription renewals, basic medical content) and face-to-face communication for others (e.g., information about treatment, questions about side-effects) [13]. We did not anticipate survivors’ negative view of a hospital-based online patient community, as the literature on online cancer support groups suggests that individuals who participate in such groups tend to cope more effectively with their disease [14], have less depressive feelings, and improved social contacts [15]. Possibly our participants are not aware of the potential benefits of using these communities, and they also referred to already existing patient communities that could be used.
Most cancer survivors and health professionals indicated that they would require face-to-face supervision for rehabilitation and psychosocial support. Studies in the fields of chronic pain and rheumatology also found that participants anticipate on the value of face-to-face supervision of a health professional [16, 17]. Furthermore, it is known that several contacts with a therapist result in less dropout and better adherence to treatment programs [18], which implies that combining an Internet program with face-to-face support would be a good compromise. This will increase the motivation of cancer survivors, which will contribute to empowerment. Other empowerment-related aspects like knowledge and skills are sufficiently covered by the remaining recommended features.