Improving care for Veterans with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Official title: Testing the Effectiveness of NAFLD Clinical Care Pathway in VA Primary Care
Run by VA Office of Research and Development · NCT06671886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests a new way to help Veterans with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by using a structured plan to improve diagnosis and treatment compared to regular care.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 2, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | November 13, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06671886 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are Veterans receiving care at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center who are at risk for NAFLD.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not have access to the main hospital or those whose care teams do not treat NAFLD will 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 intervention focuses on enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among Veterans by implementing a Clinical Care Pathway (NCCP). The NCCP utilizes an algorithmic approach to identify at-risk patients, assess their risk of severe NAFLD, and educate primary care providers on appropriate management strategies. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of this structured intervention against usual care in increasing diagnosis rates and facilitating referrals for treatment. By addressing the significant gap in care for NAFLD within the VA system, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications associated with the disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of NAFLD in Veterans, ultimately reducing the risk of severe liver complications.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown success with similar structured care pathways in improving diagnosis and management of chronic diseases, indicating potential for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT) at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Exclusion Criteria: * The investigators will exclude PACTs with unstable leadership (i.e., pending departure, vacancy) at time of randomization * PACTs participating in the focus groups in Aim 1 will be excluded in Aim 2 to avoid cross contamination * PACTs meeting the following criteria will be excluded from randomization in Aim 2: * PACTs who do not treat NAFLD * PACTs not located at the main hospital * PACTs with less than 100 visits within 3 months
Where it's running
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Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX
Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hashem B. El-Serag, MD MPH — Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX
- Study coordinator: Hashem B El-Serag, MD MPH
- Email: Hashem.El-Serag@va.gov
- Phone: (713) 794-8640
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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.