Key takeaways

• Care for HER participants reported lower distress after the program, with average scores decreasing from 6.6 to 2.7. 
• Participants reported greater readiness to follow treatment plans (88%), increased confidence in self-advocacy (84%), and reduced financial strain in at least one area (83%). 
• More frequent use of program resources was significantly associated with greater distress reduction and higher satisfaction. 

Care for HER participation was associated with lower distress and improved patient-reported navigation and support among Black women with breast cancer, according to an abstract presented at the 2026 JADPRO Live meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Care for HER provides free integrative care therapies and services nationwide, alongside 24/7 culturally tailored navigation from Black nurses and social workers who are breast cancer survivors. Researchers evaluated outcomes through an online survey completed after program participation, assessing satisfaction, resource use, perceived benefits, and preprogram and postprogram distress. 

Between April and May 2025, 57 Black women completed the survey. Mean age was 52 years, and mean time since diagnosis was 14 months. Overall, 98% were satisfied or very satisfied with the wellness passport program of integrative care therapies and services, and 93% used provided resources at least sometimes. 

Reported benefits included improved ability to find support for reducing treatment side effects (75%), better understanding of available resources (89%), and better understanding of diagnosis and treatment options (69%). Additionally, 95% felt more motivated to make healthier food choices, and 93% better understood the benefits of physical activity. These findings reflect participants’ perceptions of support and understanding rather than measured changes in diet or exercise. 

Average distress scores declined by 3.9 points, with 85% reporting reduced distress, 11% reporting no change, and 4% reporting an increase. High distress, defined as scores of 8 to 10, decreased from 39% to 0%. More frequent resource use was significantly associated with distress reduction (P < .02) and satisfaction (r = .43; P < .001). 

For oncology advanced practice providers, the findings highlight a model addressing emotional distress, navigation needs, and patient engagement through culturally tailored supportive care. The authors emphasized expanding access to these services, particularly for historically underserved communities. The evaluation relied on participant feedback; clinical treatment outcomes were not reported.  

Source

Weldon S, Worthy V, Fairley R, et al. A new comprehensive integrative care and navigation model for enhancing outcomes for Black breast cancer patients: evidence from the Care for HER program. Poster presented at: 2026 JADPRO Live; 2026; Minneapolis, MN. Poster JL1401P.