Research has demonstrated the positive effects of bibliotherapy (the use of reading in the treatment of patients), such as increased self-awareness, increased empathy, hope and decreased negativity. At Ghent University Hospital, 20 students from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences were selected to be trained as readers by 'The Readers Collective', a Flemish Organization inspired by The Reader. Those students will read to patients with acute leukemia or to patients with a solid tumors in an advanced stage, using the "read aloud" method. Eight to ten reading sessions of approximately half an hour will be organized in a 1: 1 relationship between student and patient during a period of six months. The primary aim of study is to determine the acceptability and feasibility of the intervention by the patients as well as the students. Secondary aims are exploring the impact of the reading sessions on the professional development of the students and on the emotional well-being and quality of life of cancer patients. Assessment will be based upon questionnaires (as a basis for the in-depth interviews), diary notes, and in-depth interviews.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
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Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Acceptability of the intervention
Timeframe: Interviews after six months of the first reading session