Medically tailored meals in lung cancer care: patient experiences from the NutriCare Clinical Trial

Top Things to Know

Participants consistently rated counseling as the most impactful part of the intervention, which dietitians helped patients manage symptoms, improve intake, and feel cared for, which is essential in cancer care.

For MTM programs, meals must be both nutritionally appropriate and culturally familiar to ensure adherence and reduce food waste, especially for patients with altered taste or appetite due to treatment.

MTM programs should offer customizable options to accommodate fluctuating appetites and diverse dietary needs, making interventions more patient-centered and sustainable.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The NutriCare Clinical Trial evaluated the impact of medically tailored meals (MTMs) and remote nutrition counseling on vulnerable patients with lung cancer. Participants appreciated the convenience of home-delivered meals and valued the nutrition counseling, which provided both dietary guidance and emotional support. However, satisfaction with the meals was mixed, with some participants desiring fresher, more flavorful options and greater flexibility in meal choices and portion sizes. Nutrition counseling was consistently praised for helping patients manage treatment-related symptoms and motivating healthier behaviors. The study found that combining MTMs with personalized counseling enhanced participants’ knowledge, motivation, and overall well-being. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring FIM interventions to individual preferences and treatment needs in oncology care.