Mercy Expands AI-Driven Smart-Texting Program for Chemotherapy Patients

Mercy has been awarded a four-year funding grant from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) to expand its AI-driven smart-texting program. This initiative, announced in a press release, will extend the program's reach to all chemotherapy patients aged 18 and older, enhancing the existing electronic patient-reported monitoring platform.

The expansion will not only broaden the age group but also include additional health areas such as physical function, behavioral health, and health-related social needs. The program will also incorporate automated phone systems and MyMercy messages for patients who do not respond to text messages.

The project builds on findings from a PCORI-funded study that demonstrated improved symptom control and quality of life for patients using electronic patient-reported outcome surveys. The expanded program is expected to be available to patients by October 2026.