Improving cancer screening through electronic health record nudges

I-SCREEN: Increasing Screening for Cancer using a Randomized Evaluation of EHR-based Nudges

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10904879

This study is looking to help older adults, especially those from different backgrounds or with fewer resources, get the cancer screenings they need by using friendly reminders in their health records to encourage both patients and doctors to make those important choices.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10904879 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance cancer screening rates among older adults by utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to implement behavioral nudges. These nudges are designed to address decision-making biases that prevent patients and clinicians from opting for necessary screenings, particularly in high-risk groups such as racial/ethnic minorities and those with low socioeconomic status. By personalizing these nudges, the study seeks to create tailored interventions that encourage both patients and healthcare providers to prioritize cancer screening. The approach leverages the widespread use of EHRs to facilitate large-scale implementation and evaluation of these interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those from racial/ethnic minority backgrounds or with low socioeconomic status who may face barriers to cancer screening.

Not a fit: Patients who are already receiving regular cancer screenings or those who do not have access to healthcare services may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase cancer screening rates, leading to earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that behavioral nudges can effectively improve health outcomes, indicating a promising potential for this approach.

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 Breast Cancer DetectionBreast cancer screeningCancers
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.