Exploring the Role of a Chaplain in Primary Care
Establishing the Chaplain Role in a Primary Care Clinic Setting
This study looks at how a full-time chaplain at a clinic helps patients with emotional support and tough decisions during their primary care visits.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Methodist Health System Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06225219 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the role of a full-time chaplain at the Golden Cross Academic Clinic, focusing on the interactions patients have with the chaplain during their primary care visits. It aims to identify the topics patients discuss, such as emotional support, anxiety, and moral or ethical decisions. By analyzing these interactions, the study seeks to understand the impact of spiritual care in a primary care setting, an area that has been less explored compared to inpatient chaplaincy. The findings could provide insights into how chaplaincy can enhance patient care in outpatient environments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients over 18 years old who have met with the on-staff chaplain during their visit to the Golden Cross Academic Clinic.
Not a fit: Patients who did not meet with a member of the on-staff chaplaincy during their visit will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve emotional support services for patients in primary care settings.
How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on chaplains in inpatient settings, this approach in a primary care context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • Patient at the GCAC who are \> 18 years old * Met with a member of the on-staff chaplaincy during a visit to GCAC Exclusion Criteria: * • Patient did not meet with a member of the on-staff chaplaincy during a visit to GCAC
Where this trial is running
Dallas, Texas
- Methodist Dallas Medical Center — Dallas, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew Dowden, PhD — Methodist Midlothian Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Bethany Brauer, MPH
- Email: MHSIRB@mhd.com
- Phone: 214-947-4681
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.