HOLA Intervention for Doctor-Patient Relationship in Cancer Care

Age: 18+
Sex: Any
Trial Phase: Academic
Sponsor: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
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 improve the relationship between Latino/a cancer patients and their oncologists by enhancing trust and understanding, which can lead to better health outcomes. Oncologists will learn new communication skills that align with Latino/a cultural values to strengthen connections with their patients. This trial suits Latino/a individuals with advanced cancer who have previously undergone treatment. Participants must be able to communicate in English or Spanish. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could improve communication and trust in healthcare settings.

What prior data suggests that the HOLA intervention is safe for improving doctor-patient relationships?

This trial tests the HOLA program to improve communication between doctors and Latino/a cancer patients. It is not a drug or medical procedure but a training program to enhance doctor-patient dialogue.

As a new communication method, the HOLA program lacks previous studies with concrete safety data. However, since it does not involve medication or medical procedures, it is expected to be very safe for patients.

The trial is labeled "Not Applicable," indicating it tests ideas or methods rather than physical treatments. This suggests minimal safety concerns, as the program poses no physical risk to participants. Prospective participants can feel confident that the focus is on enhancing doctor-patient interactions without medical risks.12345

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the HOLA intervention because it aims to enhance the doctor-patient relationship in cancer care, an area often overlooked in traditional treatment. Standard cancer care typically focuses on medical procedures and medication, but HOLA adds a fresh perspective by incorporating interactive training for oncologists. This intervention uses pre-recorded video vignettes and role-playing sessions to improve communication skills, which can lead to better patient outcomes and satisfaction. By fostering stronger connections between doctors and patients, HOLA has the potential to improve the overall care experience for cancer patients.

What evidence suggests that the HOLA intervention is effective for improving the doctor-patient relationship in cancer care?

This trial will evaluate the HOLA intervention, designed to enhance communication between oncologists and their patients. Research has shown that effective communication between doctors and patients can improve health outcomes as much as some medicines. Studies indicate that when doctors prioritize the patient's needs and concerns, satisfaction and understanding improve, especially among cancer patients. Latino/a cancer patients, in particular, often benefit from communication that respects their cultural values. Evidence suggests that improving this communication can build trust and enhance clarity. Overall, strengthening the doctor-patient relationship can lead to better care experiences and outcomes for cancer patients.678910

Who Is on the Research Team?

AT

Ana Tergas, MPH, MD

Principal Investigator

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for Latino/a adults with advanced or metastatic pancreatic, stomach, liver, lung, or gynecological cancer whose disease has worsened after at least one round of chemotherapy. Participants must be able to give informed consent.

Inclusion Criteria

1. identifying as ethnically Latino;
I have advanced cancer that got worse after first chemotherapy.
3. ability to provide informed consent.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Intervention

Oncologists participate in the HOLA intervention, which includes a one-hour interactive didactic session and a one-hour small group session with pre-recorded video vignettes and role-playing.

1 to 3 months

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of the intervention, as well as preliminary efficacy in improving therapeutic alliances.

1 to 3 months

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

  • HOLA Intervention

Trial Overview

The study tests the HOLA intervention—a program that trains oncologists in culturally sensitive communication skills to improve their relationships with Latino/a patients. Some doctors use HOLA; others provide usual care. The impact on doctor-patient relationships will be compared.

How Is the Trial Designed?

4

Treatment groups

Active Control

Group I: OncologistsActive Control1 Intervention
Group II: Oncologists (Usual Care)Active Control1 Intervention
Group III: PatientsActive Control1 Intervention
Group IV: Patients (Usual Care)Active Control1 Intervention

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Lead Sponsor

Trials
471
Recruited
81,700+

Citations

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