Patient-Pathologist Meetings for Breast Cancer

Overseen By Research Nurse

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Disqualifiers: Under 18, DCIS, vulnerable populations

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 1

20 Participants Needed

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores whether meetings between patients and pathologists (specialists who study the causes and effects of diseases) help patients better understand their breast cancer diagnosis and feel more in control of their treatment. The research also seeks to determine if these meetings are beneficial and practical for pathologists. Ideal participants have completed their initial diagnosis visit with an oncologist or surgeon and have their pathology slides ready for review. English proficiency is important for participation, as these meetings will be conducted in English. As an unphased study, this trial offers patients a unique opportunity to gain deeper insights into their diagnosis and treatment options.

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how direct interactions between patients and pathologists might enhance a patient's understanding and sense of control over their breast cancer diagnosis. Unlike traditional treatment approaches, which typically focus solely on medical interventions like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, this trial emphasizes the potential benefits of involving pathologists more integrally in patient care. By fostering clearer communication and a deeper comprehension of the disease, there's hope that patients will feel more empowered and better informed about their treatment options. This could lead to improved patient satisfaction and potentially better treatment outcomes.

Who Is on the Research Team?

Edward J Gutmann, MD

Principal Investigator

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for breast cancer patients interested in understanding the role of pathologists. Participants should be willing to engage with pathologists and complete questionnaires about their experience.

Inclusion Criteria

I am willing to join this study and will read the information sheet.

Must be able to speak English

I am 18 years old or older.

Exclusion Criteria

I have ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

I am under 18 years old.

Adults who are unable to provide written signature

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

1-2 weeks

Patient-Pathologist Meeting

Participants meet with a pathologist to review their pathology slides and complete pre- and post-visit knowledge questionnaires

1-2 weeks

1 visit (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for understanding and empowerment through post-visit surveys and questionnaires

1-2 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Trial Overview The study explores the impact of direct meetings between breast cancer patients and pathologists, where they discuss pathology slides together. It aims to assess if these encounters are beneficial for patients and feasible for pathologists.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Assessment of Patient understanding of Pathologist input Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Assessment of patient understanding of, and sense of control regarding, their disease, and their perception of the potential benefit of having pathologists on their medical team.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Lead Sponsor

Trials

548

Recruited

2,545,000+