Care Coordination and Communication Program in Oncology for Tribal Health Systems (C3PO)

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new program designed to improve navigation assistance specifically for Native American cancer patients. This program, called the Care Coordination and Communication Program in Oncology for Tribal Health Systems (C3PO), seeks to address communication barriers by fostering collaboration between the Stephenson Cancer Center and tribally operated healthcare systems. The goal is to provide culturally sensitive and coordinated care to improve patient outcomes. The study includes two phases. Phase I is a 3-month open pilot enrolling up to 15 patients who will receive the C3PO intervention, including navigation services and collaborative care meetings that discuss treatment side effects, comorbidities, and barriers like transportation or financial hardship. Phase II is a randomized controlled trial where patients are assigned either to continue usual navigation services or to receive the C3PO intervention with additional collaborative care meetings. After six months, those initially receiving usual care will also gain access to the C3PO program. Participants will complete baseline assessments, monthly surveys, and exit interviews during the pilot phase. Throughout the study, researchers will monitor and assess patient-reported outcomes such as perceptions of care coordination needs, number of missed visits, and time from diagnosis to initial treatment. The study emphasizes ongoing communication and support, with virtual or in-person meetings available to address patient needs. The total participation duration varies by phase, with follow-up extending up to three years for some outcome measures.

Program in Oncology for Tribal Health Systems.