Online pathway for treating depression in cancer patients
Developing and Testing an Online Pathway From Screening to Treatment for Depression in Oncology: iPath*D (Aim 2)
NA · Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center · NCT05302375
This study is testing an online program to help cancer patients with depression learn about their treatment options and see if it makes getting help easier and more effective.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (other) |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Saint Johnsbury, Vermont) |
| Trial ID | NCT05302375 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the acceptability and usability of an online pathway called iPath*D for treating depression in patients undergoing cancer treatment. Participants will access their PHQ-9 scores and an interactive decision aid that compares various treatment options, both online and in-person. The study will assess the feasibility of implementing this tool in a rural cancer clinic and its impact on mental health literacy and treatment access. The pilot will involve adult patients with moderate to severe depression who are new to treatment at the Dartmouth Cancer Center North.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are beginning treatment for cancer and have moderate to severe depression.
Not a fit: Patients with mild depression, significant cognitive impairment, or those currently receiving treatment for a mental health condition may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance access to depression treatment for cancer patients, improving their overall mental health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using digital tools for mental health support in cancer patients, suggesting potential for success with this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria 1. Adults (≥18 years) 2. New patients who are beginning treatment at Dartmouth Cancer Center North and returning for their chemo teach or radiation simulation visit 3. Can communicate in English 4. PHQ-9 ≥10 and ≤27 Exclusion criteria 1. Mild Depression (PHQ-9 ≥10) 2. Individuals who screen positive for suicidal ideation with method, intent, plan or a recent prior suicide/self-harm attempt, as determined by a positive endorsement of items 3, 4, 5 or 6 on the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSR). 3. Individuals with bipolar disorder or psychosis (documented in the EMR) 4. Individuals currently receiving treatment for a mental health condition (documented in the EMR or self-reported during eligibility screening) 5. Significant cognitive impairment (Callahan's Six Item Screener of cognitive function ≤ 4; Self-reported during eligibility screening)
Where this trial is running
Saint Johnsbury, Vermont
- Dartmouth Cancer Center St. Johnsbury — Saint Johnsbury, Vermont, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Paul Barr, Ph.D. — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Susan Tarczewski
- Email: susan.m.tarczewski@dartmouth.edu
- Phone: 603-646-7066
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.
Conditions: Cancer, Depression, shared decision making, decision aid, depression