Educational Program for Cancer

This trial tests an educational program designed to help cancer patients improve conversations with their healthcare team. The program, called Algorithm-Enabled Patients Activated in Cancer Care Through Teams (A-PACT), aims to reduce unexpected hospital visits and enhance discussions about care goals and preferences, including end-of-life planning. Participants will engage in phone sessions with health educators to assist in these areas. This trial suits individuals diagnosed with any stage of solid tumor cancer who are currently receiving or planning to receive cancer treatment and are not in hospice care. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity for patients to enhance communication skills and actively participate in care decisions.

A previous study developed A-PACT to assist cancer patients in discussing important topics with their doctors. The program includes phone sessions where educators guide patients in conversations about healthcare choices and end-of-life care. A-PACT is an educational program, not a drug or medical procedure, so it poses no physical risks like side effects. Instead, it aims to enhance communication between patients and their healthcare teams. Participants reported feeling more prepared to discuss their care, potentially leading to better outcomes. Overall, A-PACT is considered very safe for participants.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the A-PACT program because it empowers cancer patients by integrating an algorithm-enabled education system directly into their care. Unlike standard treatments that focus solely on medical interventions, A-PACT emphasizes patient activation and engagement through regular, personalized phone sessions. This approach aims to improve patient outcomes by fostering a deeper understanding of their condition and treatment options, potentially leading to more informed decision-making and better adherence to care plans. By complementing usual care with this innovative educational support, researchers hope to enhance the overall cancer care experience and improve patient satisfaction.

Research has shown that the A-PACT program, which participants in this trial may receive, can reduce unexpected hospital visits and improve discussions about care goals for cancer patients. The program uses special tools to identify patients who might need extra support and facilitates important conversations with their doctors. Studies indicate that patients using A-PACT are more likely to have their treatment preferences recorded and experience less anxiety and depression. Thus, A-PACT not only enhances communication with medical teams but also supports patients' emotional well-being.³⁴⁵⁶⁷