Team-based approaches to improve supportive cancer care (goals of care discussions, symptom management) and technology-based approaches are effective and widely used in US-based cancer clinics. However, evidence gaps remain for patients, caregivers, providers, and payers as to which approach is most effective and patient-centered for all patients after a diagnosis of cancer.
The goal of this study is to identify the most effective approach to delivering supportive cancer care.
In partnership with 24 clinics across the United States (including urban and rural community clinics, academic and safety-net clinics, and the Veterans Affairs), we will enroll 2,996 patients 18 years of age or older with newly diagnosed cancer into this study.
The 24 clinics will be randomized into an intervention group or a usual oncology group. The intervention group clinics will receive education regarding supportive cancer care from a Health Educator or Community Health Worker. The Health Educator or Community Health Worker will discuss goals of care, advance care planning and symptom management. The control group clinics will receive the same educational materials through their electronic health record patient portal, email, or text messaging. We will collect data at enrollment and again at 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-enrollment.
The study launches January 2022.
Our results may influence both policy and practice regarding cancer care in the United States and the most effective approach for ensuring htat supportive cancer care is received routinely by patients with cancer.
