Improving access to genetic testing for underserved cancer patients
Official title: Increasing Access to Genetic Testing in Underserved Patients Using a Multilingual Conversational Agent
Run by University of Southern California · NCT06422455 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a computer character can give better information about genetic testing to underserved cancer patients compared to regular human healthcare providers.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 800 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Los Angeles, California and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 24, 2023 |
| Main results expected | October 24, 2027 |
| Study ends | October 24, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | March 18, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06422455 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults over 18 diagnosed with specific types of cancer such as breast or ovarian cancer, who can read and write in English or Spanish.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who cannot provide informed consent or do not speak English or Spanish may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study compares the effectiveness of a computer-generated character providing genetic testing information to patients versus traditional information from human healthcare providers. It aims to enhance access to genetic counseling and testing, particularly for racial/ethnic minority patients and those in rural areas. The study involves multiple phases, including focus groups for feedback on the educational content, usability testing, and a pilot test to evaluate the new intervention. Patients will be randomized to receive either the new educational tool or standard care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase the rates of genetic testing among underserved cancer patients, leading to better-informed treatment decisions.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using technology to improve patient education and access to genetic testing, indicating potential for success with this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age \> 18 years old * Diagnosed with least one of the following: * Epithelial ovarian cancer * Exocrine pancreatic cancer * Metastatic or high or very high-risk prostate cancer * Breast cancer at or before age 50 * Bilateral breast cancer * Triple negative breast cancer * Male breast cancer OR * Healthcare provider who treats patients with any of the above types of cancer * Able to read and write in English or Spanish * Able to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who cannot provide informed consent * Patients who cannot see, read, or write * Patients who have the cancer and clinical characteristics defined in the inclusion criteria, but who do not speak English or Spanish * Patients with none of the listed cancer diagnoses and clinical characteristics * Healthcare provider who do not treats cancer patients
Where it's running
-
USC / Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting -
University of Rochester
Rochester, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Charite Ricker, MS — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Charite Ricker, MS
- Email: ricker@usc.edu
- Phone: 323-409-7710
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.