Facilitated Referral and Text Messaging for Lung Cancer

PM
Overseen ByPeter MacDowell
Age: 18+
Sex: Any
Trial Phase: Academic
Sponsor: University of Rochester
No Placebo GroupAll trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial aims to determine if extra help increases lung cancer screening rates. It compares two methods: a basic referral with written information and a more hands-on approach involving staff-sent referrals and follow-up text messages to encourage screening. The goal is to identify which method leads to more completed lung cancer screenings. Ideal candidates for this trial are current or former smokers with a significant smoking history, who visit the emergency department and can receive text messages. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to important research that could enhance lung cancer screening processes.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on lung cancer screening and does not mention medication changes.

What prior data suggests that this method is safe for increasing lung cancer screening uptake?

Research has shown that text messages and guided referrals can increase lung cancer screening rates. Studies indicate that text messages effectively remind people about screenings, especially those with limited access to healthcare.

Patient navigation, a component of the guided referral approach, promotes lung cancer screening by helping patients navigate the healthcare system. This method is particularly beneficial for those facing challenges in getting screened.

No reports of serious side effects have emerged from using text messages or guided referrals to increase screening. These methods are generally well-received due to their focus on communication and reminders.

Overall, guided referrals and text messages provide safe ways to encourage more people to get screened for lung cancer.12345

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores innovative ways to increase the uptake of lung cancer screening, which is crucial for early detection and treatment. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on physician referrals, this trial introduces a "Facilitated Referral + Text Messaging" approach. This method not only submits a screening form directly during an emergency department visit but also uses personalized text messages to motivate patients. These messages are based on psychological theories, aiming to enhance patients' intention and motivation to get screened. By integrating technology and personalized support, this trial could make lung cancer screening more accessible and engaging for patients.

What evidence suggests that this trial's interventions could increase lung cancer screening uptake?

Research has shown that text messages and guided referrals can increase lung cancer screening rates. In this trial, participants in the "Facilitated Referral + Text Messaging" group will receive text reminders and guided support to encourage screening completion. Studies have found that technology, such as text reminders, boosts motivation for screenings. Another study found that guiding patients through the process is especially helpful for those at high risk. Overall, these methods aim to catch lung cancer early, which can improve survival rates.13678

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for individuals eligible for lung cancer screening (LCS) who visit a high-volume urban emergency department. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receiving basic referral information and the other getting facilitated referrals plus text message reminders.

Inclusion Criteria

I am between 50 and 80 years old.
≥ 20 pack-year smoking history
Current smoker or quit within 15 years
See 2 more

Exclusion Criteria

Non-English
I am able to understand and consent to participate.
Lack of text-capable mobile phone and/or inability to use text function
See 1 more

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Randomization and Intervention

Participants are randomized into two arms: basic referral or facilitated referral with text messaging. Activities include verbal referral, submission of requisition forms, and sending text messages.

4 weeks

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for LCS uptake and feedback is collected on barriers and facilitators to screening.

16 weeks
Telephone follow-up and EHR review

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

  • Increasing Lung Cancer Screening Uptake Among Emergency Department Patients

Trial Overview

The study aims to see if LCS uptake among emergency department patients can be increased through facilitated referrals and text messaging, compared to just a basic referral. The effectiveness of these methods will be measured after 120 days.

How Is the Trial Designed?

2

Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Facilitated Referral + Text MessagingExperimental Treatment1 Intervention
Group II: Basic Referral (enhanced control arm)Active Control1 Intervention

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Rochester

Lead Sponsor

Trials
883
Recruited
555,000+

Lung Cancer Research Foundation

Collaborator

Trials
4
Recruited
1,200+

Citations

Facilitators and barriers of lung cancer screening participation

Early detection of lung cancer, including screening, improves survival outcomes ... Cross-sectional study using self-reported data via Research ...

The Feasibility and Equity of Text Messaging to Determine ...

Text messaging shows promise for assessing smoking status and identifying lung cancer screening eligibility, particularly among middle-aged, educated ...

Interventions targeted to improve lung cancer screening ...

Combined intervention and patient navigation are most effective in increasing lung cancer screening uptake among high-risk individuals.

Effectiveness of Technology-Based Interventions in ...

This study reviews how technology-based interventions have been designed and implemented to promote lung cancer screening (LCS), support shared ...

Text Messaging Interventions on Cancer Screening Rates

Background: Despite high-quality evidence demonstrating that screening reduces mortality from breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers ...

Increasing Lung Cancer Screening Uptake Among ...

The objective of the proposed clinical trial is to determine if we can increase LCS among ED patients using a combination of facilitated ...

Patient Navigation for Lung Cancer Screening at a Health ...

Study findings suggest that patient navigation may be an effective tool for promoting lung cancer screening engagement among people experiencing homelessness.

Barriers & Facilitators—Lung Cancer Screening Equity in ...

Lung cancer screening (LCS) can serve as a pillar to bridge disparities in LC outcomes through primary risk reduction with smoking cessation and secondary risk ...