E-Health Literacy and Immersive Digital Platforms in Haematological Cancer Care: The MetaCare Project

Abstract

Introduction. Haematological malignancies impose a substantial clinical and psychosocial burden, with unmet informational and educational needs that may affect treatment adherence and quality of life. Digital health technologies may support disease management, but their effectiveness depends on patients’ e-health literacy and integration within care pathways. This review examined e-health literacy among patients with haematological malignancies and informed the rationale and potential role of the MetaCare project.

Methods. A structured literature review covering 2010–2025 was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL using the Population–Concept–Context framework. Studies evaluating digital interventions for patients with haematological malignancies or their caregivers were eligible. The PRISMA-based selection process identified 1,490 records, of which seven studies involving 548 participants were included.

Results. The included studies reported improvements in patient empowerment of up to 67% and treatment adherence of up to 42%, alongside enhanced informational support, psychological well-being, and communication with healthcare professionals. Persistent barriers included the digital divide, variability in e-health literacy, and limited integration of digital interventions into clinical workflows.

Discussion. MetaCare is conceived as an immersive, modular digital ecosystem combining therapeutic education, symptom self-management, and psychosocial support. It is designed to strengthen e-health literacy and reduce informational gaps while supporting nurses’ roles in digital education and remote monitoring. Its clinical and organisational effects have not yet been evaluated; future studies should assess patient-reported outcomes, adherence, symptom management, unplanned healthcare use, accessibility, and implementation within routine care.