Patient Preferences for Musculoskeletal Disorders
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to understand how people choose imaging tests for musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis or tendon problems. It will examine whether a structured discussion about the pros and cons of a test, known as a Diagnostic Advance Care Planning Discussion, increases confidence and reduces conflict in decision-making. Participants will either engage in a detailed conversation with a researcher or read brief information about the test, then provide feedback through a survey. Ideal participants are adults with non-traumatic musculoskeletal conditions, like carpal tunnel syndrome or osteoarthritis, who are seeking specialized care. This study is solely for research purposes and will not impact any medical treatment. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to valuable research that could enhance decision-making processes for future patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial does not require you to stop taking your current medications, as it focuses on decision-making about imaging tests and does not involve actual medical testing or treatment changes.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe?
A previous study showed that structured conversations about healthcare choices make patients feel more confident and less uncertain. These discussions focus on understanding what is important to each person and do not involve any medical procedures or tests.
There is no physical risk because participants only discuss hypothetical situations. These conversations are safe and help people think more clearly about their options. Participants will not undergo any medical tests, so there are no direct health risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how structured conversations can impact decision-making for musculoskeletal disorders. Unlike traditional approaches, which often involve straightforward information delivery, the intervention here uses an Advance Care Planning-style conversation. This method helps participants understand their own values and goals regarding diagnostic tests. By focusing on personalized discussions, this trial aims to uncover whether such conversations can lead to more informed and value-consistent decisions for patients.
What evidence suggests that this trial's methods could be effective for decision-making in musculoskeletal imaging tests?
This trial will compare two approaches to discussing medical decisions. Participants in the intervention group will engage in a structured, scenario-based conversation simulating a diagnostic decision-making discussion. Research has shown that structured discussions can help patients feel more confident and less uncertain. For example, advanced practice physiotherapists use these discussions to diagnose and treat muscle and joint problems. These conversations focus on patients' values and preferences, leading to better choices. Studies have found that such discussions help patients understand the pros and cons of medical tests or treatments. Although this trial doesn't involve medical testing, past evidence supports the effectiveness of these value-focused talks in making healthcare decisions.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
David Ring, MD
Principal Investigator
Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, TX, United States
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with musculoskeletal issues like arthritis, tendonitis, or nerve compression who are visiting a specialty clinic. It's not for actual medical testing but to understand decision-making preferences regarding diagnostic imaging tests.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 structured conversation or receive brief written information about a proposed diagnostic imaging test
Survey
Participants complete a survey to measure enthusiasm and decisional conflict regarding the diagnostic test
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any changes in decision-making confidence and preferences
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Diagnostic Advance Care Planning Discussion
Trial Overview
The study compares the effects of a structured conversation about the pros and cons of imaging tests versus just reading written information on patients' willingness and confidence in deciding whether to undergo such tests.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Participants randomized to the intervention group will engage in a structured, scenario-based conversation simulating a diagnostic decision-making discussion. This conversation will be guided by a trained researcher using branching scripted prompts designed to reflect an Advance Care Planning (ACP)-style approach. The discussion will explore the participant's values, goals, and understanding of potential benefits and harms of the proposed hypothetical imaging test. No actual diagnostic tests will be ordered.
Participants randomized to the control group will receive the same hypothetical clinical scenario, including mention of a proposed diagnostic imaging test. Instead of a structured discussion, they will be presented with a brief, standardized informational statement describing what the test involves, what it may show, and general risks or limitations. No values-based discussion or simulated conversation will occur.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Texas at Austin
Lead Sponsor
Citations
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implementationscience.biomedcentral.com
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Electronic Health Records for Predicting Outcomes to Work ...
Predicting outcomes of all MSK disorders using EHRs has been researched in 6 studies, with only 3 focusing on MSK therapists and 4 addressing WMSDs.
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