Training surgeons to improve communication with patients in Wisconsin
Official title: Better Conversations for Better Informed Consent: A Pilot Study to Automate Surgeon Training and Evaluate Patient-Reported Outcomes
Run by University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06647303 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 580 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 18, 2024 |
| Main results expected | November 2028 |
| Study ends | November 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 26, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06647303 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 or older who are facing surgical decisions and can communicate in English.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who lack decision-making capacity or cannot speak English 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 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.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could lead to improved patient understanding and satisfaction regarding surgical procedures.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is evidence-based, it represents a novel shift in surgical communication practices that has not been widely tested.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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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.