FOCUS: A guide to talk about goals for surgery with older patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

The study tests whether using the FOCUS Guide improves discussions about goals for surgery in older adults undergoing major non-urgent procedures. It targets how goals like independence and function are discussed and documented in the clinic. The intervention is a structured communication tool used during outpatient surgical consultations. Eligible patients are adults 65 and older seen by enrolled surgeons at the University of Utah/Huntsman Cancer Institute. Outcomes focus on alignment between patient priorities and planned care.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

For surgeons

1\. Surgeons who have regular outpatient clinics at the University of Utah and Huntsman Cancer Institute

For patients:

1. Age ≥65 years.
2. Presenting for in-person outpatient consultation regarding major non-urgent surgery with an enrolled surgeon.
3. Ability to provide informed consent.
4. English-speaking.

Exclusion Criteria:

For surgeons

1. Surgeons with a predominantly pediatric practice
2. Transplant surgeons

For patients

1. Anticipated life expectancy \<3 months.
2. Inability to complete study procedures.
3. Patients presenting for minor procedures or non-operative consultations.
4. Telehealth consultation
5. Any clinical, cognitive, communication, or logistical factor that, in the opinion of the treating surgeon or investigator, would substantially interfere with participation or completion of study procedures.

Where it's running

• University of Utah Hospital
  Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Jessica Cohan, MD — University of Utah
• Study coordinator: Sierra McNall, BS
• Email: Sierra.McNall@hsc.utah.edu
• Phone: 801-213-6543

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.