NIH-funded research R01 grant

Improving end-of-life care for patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers

Official title: Improving Understanding of Quality End of Life Care Using a Dyadic Approach

Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10887648 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how to make end-of-life care better for people with advanced cancer by focusing on what both patients and their caregivers want and need, so everyone can have a more meaningful and supportive experience during this tough time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project startJuly 13, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$606,907
NIH project number5R01CA276712-02
Project IDNIH-10887648 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced cancer who are nearing the end of life and their informal caregivers.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage cancer or those not facing end-of-life decisions may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the quality of end-of-life care for patients with advanced cancer by adopting a dyadic approach that considers both patients and their caregivers. It aims to redefine what constitutes quality care by incorporating individual preferences and the experiences of caregivers, rather than relying solely on traditional metrics like the amount of aggressive treatment received. The study will explore how to better align care with patient goals and improve the overall experience for both patients and their families during this critical time. By addressing the complexities of end-of-life care, the research seeks to provide a more holistic understanding of quality care.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved end-of-life care that aligns with patient preferences, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that patient-centered approaches in end-of-life care can lead to better outcomes, suggesting that this dyadic approach may also be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • Case Western Reserve University
    Cleveland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Douglas, Sara L. — Case Western Reserve University
  • Study coordinator: Douglas, Sara L.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.