Using electronic health records and behavioral nudges to improve palliative care for patients with serious illnesses.

Leveraging the electronic health record and behavioral nudges to promote primary and specialist palliative care for inpatients with serious illness: A pragmatic trial

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11111360

This study is looking to improve palliative care for people with advanced Alzheimer's and related dementias by using health records to find those who need it most, so they can get the right support and care that matches their wishes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11111360 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the delivery of palliative care for patients with serious illnesses, particularly those suffering from advanced Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). By leveraging electronic health records and behavioral nudges, the study seeks to identify patients who would benefit most from palliative care services. The approach involves implementing prognostic triggers within the electronic health record system to ensure timely and equitable access to both primary and specialist palliative care. The goal is to align care with patients' preferences and improve their quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with serious illnesses, particularly those diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without serious illnesses may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved quality of life and better alignment of care with patient preferences for individuals with serious illnesses.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that implementing palliative care triggers can improve patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

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 Alzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disordersAlzheimer's disease or a related dementiaAlzheimer's disease or a related disorderAlzheimer's disease or related dementia
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.