Improving access to genetic testing for young cancer patients using eHealth and chatbots

AYA ACCESS Study: An enhanced eHealth and Chat-bot enabled delivery model for clinical genetic services in community AYA cancer patients

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11056107

This study is looking to make it easier for teens and young adults with cancer to get genetic testing and support through a helpful online program that includes chatbots and virtual counseling, so they can better understand their options and improve their health outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056107 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the delivery of genetic services to adolescents and young adults (AYA) diagnosed with cancer by utilizing an innovative eHealth model. The approach includes web-based pre-test counseling and chatbot technology to provide personalized support, answer patient questions, and remind them about genetic testing. By focusing on community oncology practices, the study seeks to increase the uptake of genetic counseling and testing among AYAs who often lack access to these services. The goal is to improve patient outcomes by ensuring more AYAs receive the genetic testing they need.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 39 who have been diagnosed with cancer and may benefit from genetic testing.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 15 to 39 or those without a cancer diagnosis may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the number of young cancer patients receiving essential genetic testing, leading to better-informed treatment options and improved health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with web-based pre-test counseling, indicating that this approach could be effective in increasing genetic testing uptake among AYAs.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adolescent and young adult cancer patientsAdolescent and young adult cancer populationAdolescent and young adults with cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.