Using SMS texts to help homeless individuals manage diabetes
Official title: Short-messaging Services (SMS) Text for Uncontrolled Diabetes Among Persons Experiencing Homelessness
Run by George Washington University · NCT05616026 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if sending text messages can help homeless people better manage their diabetes over six months.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | George Washington University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 7, 2023 |
| Main results expected | November 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | November 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | January 14, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05616026 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are homeless individuals aged 21 and older, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and with an HbA1c level of 8% or higher.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, have severe uncontrolled illnesses, or are unable to read/respond to texts 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 the effectiveness of a six-month SMS text messaging program aimed at improving diabetes management among homeless individuals. It combines a randomized controlled trial with qualitative interviews to assess changes in HbA1c levels and adherence to diabetes self-care activities. The program is designed to enhance communication, education, and care coordination for individuals experiencing homelessness, leveraging the accessibility of mobile phones. The study will be conducted in shelter-clinics in New York City, in collaboration with community organizations to ensure sustainability and scalability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve diabetes management and health outcomes for homeless individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While SMS strategies for diabetes management have been explored, this specific approach targeting homeless individuals is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Homeless person age ≥ 21 * Diagnosed with type 2 DM * Most recent visit HbA1c ≥ 8% * English/Spanish speaking * Connected to study sites' shelter-clinics for care Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant or within 3 months postpartum * Has an uncontrolled severe illness * Has had a heart attack or stroke in the previous 6 months * Inability to read/respond to texts * Inability to provide informed consent * Receiving inpatient care for severe substance abuse
Where it's running
-
George Washington University
Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States Recruiting -
NYU Langone Health
New York, New York, United States Active not recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ramin Asgary, MD, MPH
- Email: raminasgary1@gwu.edu
- Phone: 917-684-9331
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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.