“…Although patient education is critical, patients frequently describe needing types of information and emotional support that are not typically available from providers 1,2 (e.g., insight into day-to-day treatment and recovery experiences, 3 realistic information about side effects and management strategies 4 ), but that are best provided by patients with a similar diagnosis or treatment-that is, peer support. 1,5,6 Informational and emotional support from peers 7,8 can reduce patients' distress 9,10 and social isolation 8,11 ; increase hope and optimism 12 ; help patients feel more informed, 8 empowered, 8 and prepared 10 ; normalize their reactions and experiences 4,8 ; alert them to available resources 13 ; support and inform their decision making 14 ; and model new ways of coping with potential problems. 4,8 Despite these benefits, peers may provide inaccurate information, reinforce unhelpful health behaviors, and increase distress and anxiety through negative stories.…”