Lung transplantation relies heavily on informal caregivers to support patients' post-surgery, yet their experiences and needs are often overlooked. This study aims to better understand the determinants of caregiver burden and coping through a sequential mixed methods design. Researchers will collect survey and interview data from caregivers in Ontario and Michigan to capture the complex realities of caregiving after lung transplant. The findings will be used to develop a comprehensive support toolkit, “The Caregiver’s Compass,” to address caregiver needs and guide transplant teams in offering improved support. This international project builds on prior work and represents a unique cross-border collaboration. It ultimately seeks to improve health outcomes for patients and caregivers through more informed and compassionate care delivery.

This study will generate new insights into caregiver burden, coping strategies, and unmet needs among informal caregivers of lung transplant recipients. Findings will directly inform the creation of a caregiver-centered toolkit that can be used by transplant teams to improve communication, support, and overall caregiver well-being. The cross-border design strengthens the generalizability and reach of the results across North America.