The development of online breast cancer support group : Collaboration between medical professionals and experienced breast cancer survivors.

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This study documented the establishment of an online breast cancer support group with medical professionals and six experienced breast cancer survivors. A focus group using a semi-structured guide provided data that was transcribed verbatim, and analyzed qualitatively to clarify patient's needs and issues about peer support via Internet. Second, a bibliographic survey provided clarification regarding issues about online breast cancer support groups. Next, existing web-based support groups were analyzed. Based on these investigations, Hope Tomorrow, the web system for breast cancer patients, was developed. Active use of this site should increase the community's store of knowledge, both factual and narrative. The next step will be the sophistication of the site contents and usability, the formulation of evaluation indicators and the examination of effectiveness.