Improving access to genetic testing for underserved cancer patients

Increasing Access to Genetic Testing in Underserved Patients Using a Multilingual Conversational Agent

NA · University of Southern California · NCT06422455

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

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment800 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern California (other)
Locations2 sites (Los Angeles, California and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06422455 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

Not a fit: Patients who cannot provide informed consent or do not speak English or Spanish may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using technology to improve patient education and access to genetic testing, indicating potential for success with this approach.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Los Angeles, California and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Breast Carcinoma, Male Breast Carcinoma, Malignant Solid Neoplasm, Metastatic Prostate Carcinoma, Ovarian Carcinoma, Pancreatic Exocrine Neoplasm, Stage IVB Prostate Cancer American Joint Committee on Cancer v8, Triple-Negative Breast Carcinoma

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.