Improving Surgical Recovery Programs for Adults with Low Health Literacy Using VISACT Strategy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to reduce surgical disparities experienced by patients with low health literacy, a group at higher risk for complications, longer hospital stays, and readmissions after surgery. The study focuses on adapting enhanced recovery programs ERPs, which have shown promise in reducing racial disparities but currently do not fully meet the needs of low health literacy patients. The project plans to test a new implementation strategy called VISACT, designed to improve ERP delivery and outcomes for this vulnerable population. The VISACT intervention combines visual aids, coaching for providers on communication, and training for organizations in health literacy. This multilevel strategy will be delivered through an interactive response platform to patients, healthcare providers, and organizations. The pilot trial will take place over 2.5 years at two sites, including baseline data collection for 6 to 12 months, a one-month intervention delivery period, and 18 to 24 months of post-intervention data collection to assess its impact. Participants will include adult patients undergoing surgery with ERPs, as well as caregivers, providers, and organizational leaders involved in ERP implementation. The study will assess the reach, efficacy, adoption, implementation fidelity, and maintenance of the VISACT intervention using various measures such as length of hospital stay, readmission rates, and complication rates. Data collection will occur throughout the study, with the primary outcome focused on the interventions reach to patients and providers over 16 to 24 months. The total study duration extends until May 2028.

Adapting Enhanced Recovery Programs for Low Health Literacy Patients