Exploring decision-making tools for older patients with end-stage kidney disease
Official title: Best Case/Worst Case: A Multisite Randomized Clinical Trial of Scenario Planning for Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10796855 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new tool called 'Best Case/Worst Case' to help older patients with advanced kidney disease make better choices about their treatment and care, so they can feel more in control and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $616,256 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG065365-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10796855 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those over 65, who are starting dialysis or are already undergoing treatment for end-stage kidney disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those with early-stage kidney disease may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new communication tool called 'Best Case/Worst Case' designed to help older patients with end-stage kidney disease make informed decisions about their treatment options. The study involves a multisite randomized clinical trial where patients will use scenario planning to visualize potential outcomes of their treatment choices. By focusing on improving decision-making and promoting timely palliative care, the research aims to enhance the quality of life for these patients and reduce unnecessary invasive procedures. Participants will engage in discussions about their goals and preferences regarding dialysis and end-of-life care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could empower patients to make better-informed decisions about their treatment and improve their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that decision aids and scenario planning can improve patient outcomes in similar contexts, suggesting a promising approach for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwarze, Margaret — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Schwarze, Margaret
Related research
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-
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-
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Fistula versus graft for hemodialysis access in older adults
This study compares two types of surgical dialysis access—fistulas and grafts—to find which is better for adults aged 65 and older who are using a catheter for hemodialysis.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.