Using patient-reported data to address racial disparities in cancer treatment

The Care Tracker Study: Using Patient-Reported Data to Address Racial Disparities in Cancer Treatment Delay

Not applicable Interventional UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center · NCT06096623

This study is testing a new online tool that helps cancer patients report any delays in their treatment to see if it can help reduce delays, especially for those with breast and colorectal cancer.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment240 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06096623 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of an electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) tool that enables patients to identify potential delays in their cancer treatment. It aims to measure the risk of treatment delays based on tumor type and race using both ePRO and electronic health record (EHR) data. The study plans to enroll 240 newly diagnosed cancer patients, focusing on breast and colorectal cancer, to identify modifiable barriers to timely treatment. The ultimate goal is to alert care teams to patients at risk of delays and facilitate quicker access to treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old with a recent diagnosis of breast or colorectal cancer who have not yet started treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable or unwilling to use electronic devices for surveys or do not have access to email or SMS may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce treatment delays for cancer patients, particularly those from racially diverse backgrounds.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using patient-reported outcomes to improve treatment access and equity, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

In order to participate in this study a subject must meet all of the eligibility criteria outlined below.

1. Male and female patients of age \>18 years.
2. Pathologic diagnosis of breasts or colorectal cancer within 6 weeks (42 days) prior to the enrollment date.
3. Have not yet initiated cancer treatment on the date of enrollment.
4. Indicate intent to receive cancer treatment at the University of North Carolina.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patient unwilling or unable to receive electronic survey links via email or text link on a mobile device, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.
2. Patient unwilling or unable to provide verbal or signed consent to participate.
3. Patient cannot read and speak English.
4. Patients who do not have email access or a smartphone are able to receive Short Message/Messaging Service (SMS) text messages.

Where this trial is running

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

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.
Conditions CancerBreast CancerColorectal Cancerpatient-reported outcomeelectronichealth equityelectronic surveytreatment delay
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.