Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Empowers Patients with Right Track Framework

Finding the right care team, performing the right testing, and getting the right treatment are important steps patients with multiple myeloma (MM) can take to become active participants in their own care and improve their outcomes, according to a poster presentation at JADPRO Live 2023, the Annual APSHO Meeting.

The steps were put forth in the Right Track framework, created by the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) in conjunction with other nonprofit cancer foundations and the Kraft Precision Medicine Accelerator program in the Harvard Business School.

In total, 4,150 patients and caregivers participated in at least one educational program offered by the MMRF. Led by myeloma specialists, each program covered a range of topics—from newly diagnosed myeloma to relapsed or refractory and remission stages—and provided techniques and resources for patients to follow the three-step blueprint.

According to a 2022 survey distributed by the MMRF, 79% of respondents reported taking positive steps related to the Right Track framework, and up to 68% took action by communicating about treatment options, side effects, personal needs, and clinical trial eligibility. Other respondents took positive action by requesting specific diagnostic tests and information gathering for health care team discussions.

Meanwhile, up to 16% of respondents sought second opinions, joined support groups, enrolled in clinical trials, or contacted the MMRF’s Patient Navigation Center. About 21% of respondents did not take further action, and 72% adhered to their prescribed treatment plan or faced challenges regarding geographical access to a myeloma specialist.

As for 2023, 87% of respondents reported taking positive actions using the Right Track framework, an increase from the previous year.

Moving forward, the next steps for the longitudinal survey and expanding the framework’s potential include further analysis into program attendance frequency, patients’ geographic location, and patients’ disease stage.

Reference

Bohorquez V, LaTemple D, DeRome M, and Young AQ. Empowering multiple myeloma patients: the impact of the MMRF’s Right Track framework. Abstract #JL1105P. Presented at JADPRO Live 2023, the Annual ASPHO Meeting; November 9-12, 2023; Orlando, Florida.