Care Coordination and Communication Program to Improve Support for Native American Cancer Patients in Tribal Health Systems

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a program designed to improve navigation assistance for Native American cancer patients. The study aims to address communication barriers within healthcare by fostering collaboration between the Stephenson Cancer Center and tribally operated healthcare systems. The goal is to enhance patient outcomes by providing culturally sensitive and coordinated care through this partnership. The study includes two phases. Phase I is a 3-month open pilot involving up to 15 patients receiving the Care Coordination and Communication Program in Oncology for Tribal Health Systems C3PO intervention. Phase II is a randomized controlled trial comparing C3PO intervention to usual care navigation services over an initial 6-month period, after which all participants receive C3PO. The C3PO intervention involves monthly collaborative care meetings to discuss treatment side effects, comorbidities, approvals for referred care, and barriers such as transportation or financial hardship. Participants complete baseline assessments, monthly surveys, and exit interviews in Phase I. During the study, researchers monitor patient-reported outcomes, missed visits, and time from diagnosis to treatment. Collaborative care coordinators meet with participants virtually or in-person as needed before and after care meetings. The total study duration extends up to several years, with primary outcomes measured at 1 year and secondary outcomes followed for up to 3 years.

Program in Oncology for Tribal Health Systems.