Social Work Counseling for Cancer of the Female Reproductive System
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how social work counseling, specifically using a Systematic Social Work Driven Approach, can assist people with gynecological cancers and their families in understanding and completing medical power of attorney documents. These documents enable patients to appoint someone to make medical decisions on their behalf if necessary. The trial aims to determine if counseling and education influence attitudes and willingness to discuss these important decisions. It seeks participants with stage I-IV gynecological cancers who are new patients at the Gynecologic Oncology Center and can understand English or Spanish. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the opportunity to contribute to valuable research that could enhance support systems for others facing similar challenges.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on social work counseling rather than medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this systematic social work driven approach is safe?
Research has shown that many women with gynecological cancers have unmet social needs. One study found that about 65% of women had at least one unmet need, and over 36% experienced significant distress. This underscores the importance of social support in their care.
The trial employs a social work approach designed to address these needs, focusing on counseling and education, which are generally safe. No reports of harmful effects have emerged from this type of support.
The trial does not involve medications or physical treatments, making it low-risk. Participants are likely to benefit from the support, with little to no chance of negative effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a systematic social work-driven approach for supporting patients with cancer of the female reproductive system. Unlike standard medical treatments that focus on physical symptoms, this approach aims to enhance emotional and psychological well-being by addressing knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about medical power of attorney designations (MPOAD). The trial uniquely includes educational videos and questionnaires to improve understanding and communication between patients and their families, potentially leading to better overall care experiences and decision-making. This holistic focus on the social and emotional aspects of cancer care sets it apart from more traditional medical interventions.
What evidence suggests that this systematic social work driven approach is effective for improving medical power of attorney documentation in gynecological cancer patients?
Research shows that a structured approach led by social workers can benefit patients with gynecological cancers. In this trial, participants will receive supportive care, including education and counseling to help them better understand and complete medical power of attorney forms. Studies indicate that this approach improves patients' knowledge and attitudes about making medical decisions. Participants often feel more prepared and willing to engage in important discussions about their care. Overall, these interventions effectively support patients and their families during cancer treatment planning.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Donna S Zhukovsky
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for new patients at the Gynecologic Oncology Center with stages 1-4 invasive gynecological cancers. Participants must understand and complete medical power of attorney documents, speak English or Spanish, and have a consenting MPOA or primary family caregiver.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants complete questionnaires and watch an educational video about the importance of the role of MPOA
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about MPOAD and willingness to participate in future discussions
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Systematic Social Work Driven Approach
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator