Communication Intervention for Cancer Care
(PRECursOr Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to improve communication during cancer care appointments by fostering more supportive conversations between doctors, patients, and caregivers. Researchers seek to evaluate this approach in real-life settings before introducing it to larger groups. The trial includes two groups: one using the new communication approach, called the Triadic Communication Intervention, and one without it. Women with advanced gynecologic cancer who are not in hospice care, along with their primary caregivers, may be eligible to join.
As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative communication strategies that could enhance cancer care experiences for many.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on communication during appointments, so it's unlikely that medication changes are required.
What prior data suggests that this communication intervention is safe?
Research shows that better communication between doctors, patients, and caregivers can enhance patient experiences. Studies have found that improved communication helps patients understand their treatment goals and receive better care.
This trial involves no physical treatments or medications. Instead, it focuses on improving communication during cancer care, eliminating risks related to medication side effects or adverse events. The goal is to make conversations more supportive and helpful. Therefore, joining this trial is very safe, as it only involves participating in discussions.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Communication Intervention for Cancer Care because it focuses on enhancing the way patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers communicate. Unlike traditional cancer treatments that directly target the disease through medication or therapy, this intervention aims to improve the overall cancer care experience by fostering clearer, more effective communication. This technique could lead to better understanding of treatment plans, increased patient satisfaction, and potentially improved health outcomes by ensuring everyone involved is on the same page.
What evidence suggests that this communication intervention is effective for cancer care?
This trial will compare the effects of a communication intervention with a control group in cancer care. Research has shown that improving communication can greatly enhance interactions between patients, doctors, and caregivers. Participants in the intervention group triads will engage with strategies designed to improve communication. Studies have found these strategies help caregivers better understand the illness and use online health tools more effectively. Additionally, these strategies make important conversations, such as delivering difficult news, more effective. Overall, involving caregivers and encouraging open dialogue positively impacts the cancer care experience.26789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adult women with advanced, incurable gynecologic cancers who are at a critical point in their illness and have not responded well to initial treatments. They must speak English and not be receiving palliative care or hospice. Caregivers primarily involved in the patient's care can also participate if they meet similar language criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants engage in a communication intention elicitation intervention prior to an outpatient oncology encounter
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for communication behavior changes and satisfaction through surveys and interviews
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Intervention group triads
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Indiana University
Lead Sponsor
American Cancer Society, Inc.
Collaborator