Using SMS texts to help homeless individuals manage diabetes
Short-messaging Services (SMS) Text for Uncontrolled Diabetes Among Persons Experiencing Homelessness
This study tests if sending text messages can help homeless people better manage their diabetes over six months.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | George Washington University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05616026 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve diabetes management and health outcomes for homeless individuals.
How similar studies have performed: While SMS strategies for diabetes management have been explored, this specific approach targeting homeless individuals is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 1 other locations
- 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
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.