Visual Tools for Prostate Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if visual tools can improve conversations between doctors and patients regarding the risks and benefits of surgery for prostate and kidney cancer. The research will explore how these tools might influence the advice doctors provide and how patients perceive their discussions. The trial will also examine whether these changes differ among various races and healthcare settings. Patients newly diagnosed with localized prostate cancer or a T1 renal mass in the past six months may be suitable candidates for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance doctor-patient communication.
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's best to discuss this with the trial coordinator or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this visual decision support is safe for use in patient-provider communication?
Research has shown that visual tools in medical settings are generally safe for both patients and doctors. These tools help doctors explain treatment options more clearly. Studies have found that visual aids improve communication and understanding without causing harm.
One study on visual tools for prostate cancer care found that these aids enhanced understanding of treatment outcomes for both patients and doctors. The visuals did not negatively affect patient safety but made complex medical information easier to grasp.
Another study used visual timelines to help prostate cancer patients track their health over time. This method was well received and did not cause safety issues.
Overall, visual tools are well-tolerated. They improve the quality of care by making medical information clearer and easier to discuss, without introducing risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores using visual tools to improve communication and decision-making for prostate cancer treatment. Unlike traditional medical approaches that mainly focus on drug or surgical interventions, this method emphasizes enhancing understanding between patients and physicians. By utilizing visual aids, the trial aims to make complex medical information more accessible, potentially leading to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.
What evidence suggests that this visual decision support is effective for prostate cancer?
This trial will evaluate the use of visual tools for prostate cancer. Studies have shown that visual tools can help prostate cancer patients better understand complex information. For instance, visual timelines clearly display a patient's health data over time. Research suggests these tools make it easier for patients to manage their health and compare their outcomes with others. However, not all visual aids are equally helpful; some studies found no improvement in patients' understanding of their prognosis. Better visual aids are expected to help doctors and patients discuss the risks and benefits of surgery more effectively, potentially improving communication between patients and their healthcare providers.35678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Hung-Jui Tan, MD
Principal Investigator
UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for urologists treating patients with newly diagnosed localized prostate and kidney cancer. It aims to include up to 20 surgeons from both academic and community settings, targeting a total of 200 unique patient visits.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-Intervention
Patient encounters are audio recorded, transcribed, and coded for discussion of risks/benefits of surgery and strength of recommendation before the intervention
Intervention
Implementation of visual decision support tools for urologists
Post-Intervention
Patient encounters are audio recorded, transcribed, and coded for discussion of risks/benefits of surgery and strength of recommendation after the intervention
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in patient-physician communication and decision-making
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Visual
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor