JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Music-based interventions (MBIs) have a growing evidence base in cancer symptom management and are recommended in cancer care guidelines. However, the paucity of research on how MBI-related information is presented to the public may limit adoption of this evidence-based modality.

Objective:

This study reviewed public-facing websites of NCI-designated cancer centers (CCs) to determine scope, findability, and quality of MBI-related information.

Methods:

We reviewed 64 NCI-designated CC websites (excluding basic laboratories) for MBI-related information between November 2022 and January 2023. We extracted data on the scope of information (e.g., MBI type, format, delivery method, setting, population, practitioner qualification, benefits/indications, cost, etc.) and the findability (i.e., number of clicks to locate MBI-related information). We used scope and findability data to rate the overall information quality as high, moderate, or low.

Results:

Thirty-one (48%) of the 64 CCs described MBIs on their websites. Of these, 6 mentioned both music therapy (MT) and other music services (MS); 16 mentioned MT only; 9 mentioned MS only. MBIs were mostly delivered in-person by board-certified music therapists to adult populations in outpatient and inpatient settings using individual and group formats. CCs described physical, psychological, spiritual, and social benefits of MBIs. Four or more websites lacked information on MBI format, delivery method, setting, target population, and/or practitioner qualifications, and 26 lacked cost information. MBI-related information was found with an average of four clicks. Nine websites were high quality, 18 were moderate, and 4 were low.

Conclusions:

NCI-designated CCs presented a wide range of public-facing information about MBIs, but this information needs to be more detailed and accessible to promote the dissemination and implementation of MBIs for cancer symptom management. Clinical Trial: N/A