Training surgeons to improve communication with patients in Wisconsin
Better Conversations for Better Informed Consent: A Pilot Study to Automate Surgeon Training and Evaluate Patient-Reported Outcomes
This study is testing a new training program for surgeons in Wisconsin to see if it helps them communicate better with patients about surgery and treatment choices.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 580 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06647303 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates a new training program aimed at enhancing communication between surgeons and their patients. The program, called 'Better Conversations,' seeks to provide patients with the necessary information to make informed treatment decisions regarding surgery. Participants will engage in surveys, focus groups, or receive training on this communication framework. The goal is to ensure that surgeons convey critical information about surgical goals and potential downsides, fostering a collaborative decision-making environment. This initiative is a precursor to larger-scale testing and dissemination of the communication framework.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 or older who are facing surgical decisions and can communicate in English.
Not a fit: Patients who lack decision-making capacity or cannot speak English may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could lead to improved patient understanding and satisfaction regarding surgical procedures.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is evidence-based, it represents a novel shift in surgical communication practices that has not been widely tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Surgeons: * Surgeons from University of Wisconsin - Madison Department of Surgery who have an outpatient surgical clinic and treat adult patients at UW Health Surgical candidates: * Age 18 or older * Present to an enrolled surgeon's clinic with a surgical problem * Decision making ability * Speak English Stakeholders: * Must have previous experience with surgery (within 10 years) * Speak English Exclusion Criteria: Surgeons: * Solely treat minors (under age 18) Surgical candidates: * Lacking decision making capacity * Unable to speak English Stakeholders: * Unable to speak English
Where this trial is running
Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin — Madison, Wisconsin, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Margaret (Gretchen) Schwarze, MD, MPP — University of Wisconsin, Madison
- Study coordinator: Kyle J Bushaw, MA
- Email: bushaw@surgery.wisc.edu
- Phone: 608-265-2904
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.