title: Randomized controlled trial to test a computerized psychosocial cancer assessment and referral program: methods and research design.
abstract: The National Cancer Coalition Network, National Cancer Institute, and American College of Surgeons all emphasize the need for oncology providers to identify, address, and monitor psychosocial needs of their patients. The Mental Health Assessment and Dynamic Referral for Oncology (MHADRO) is a patient-driven, computerized, psychosocial assessment that identifies, addresses, and monitors physical, psychological, and social issues faced by oncology patients. This paper presents the methodology of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that tested the impact of the MHADRO on patient outcomes at 2, 6, and 12 months. Patient outcomes including overall psychological distress, depression, anxiety, functional disability, and use of psychosocial resources will be presented in future publications after all follow-up data is gathered. Eight hundred and thirty six cancer patients with heterogeneous diagnoses, across three comprehensive cancer centers in different parts of the United States, were randomized to the MHADRO (intervention) or an assessment-only control group. Patients in the intervention group were provided detailed, personalized reports and, when needed, referrals to mental health services; their oncology provider received detailed reports designed to foster clinical decision making. Those patients who demonstrated high levels of psychosocial problems were given the option to authorize that a copy of their report be sent electronically to a "best match" mental health professional. Demographic and patient cancer-related data as well as comparisons between patients who were enrolled and those who declined enrollment are presented. Challenges encountered during the RCT and strategies used to address them are discussed.
authors: Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States.
authors: Erin L
authors: EL
authors: O'Hea
authors: Alexandra
authors: A
authors: Cutillo
authors: Laura
authors: L
authors: Dietzen
authors: Tina
authors: T
authors: Harralson
authors: Grant
authors: G
authors: Grissom
authors: Sharina
authors: S
authors: Person
authors: Edwin D
authors: ED
authors: Boudreaux
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012107:Research Design; D012984:Software; D016896:Treatment Outcome
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