NCT04984551 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Impact of Project ECHO on Improving the Quality of Palliative Care in Patients With Advanced Cancer and Their Caregivers in Underserved Areas of Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, India, and Ethiopia
What this study is about
This trial investigates the experience and satisfaction of care in patients with cancer that has spread to other places in the body (advanced) and their caregivers living in underserved areas of Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, India and Ethiopia as part of Project Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO).
View original scientific description
This trial investigates the experience and satisfaction of care in patients with cancer that has spread to other places in the body (advanced) and their caregivers living in underserved areas of Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, India and Ethiopia as part of Project Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO). Project ECHO is a model of medical education and care management that empowers clinicians to provide better care to more people where they live. Understanding the experiences and satisfaction of patients and caregivers may help improve healthcare workforce capacity and increase access to specialty care for the world's rural and underserved populations.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- PATIENT: Scheduled to receive treatment at participating primary care practice for advanced cancer
- PATIENT: 18 years or older
- PATIENT: Willing to be accessible to the research team for follow-up by telephone or in person
- PATIENT: Prognosis of at least 1 year as ascertained by the treating physician
- PATIENT: Able to read and understand English as assessed by the treating physician
- CAREGIVER: Identified or self-identified as primary caregiver of the patient
- CAREGIVER: Willing to be accessible to the research team for follow-up by telephone or in person
- CAREGIVER: 18 years or older
- CAREGIVER: Able to read and understand English as assessed by the treating physician
- ECHO PARTICIPANT: Participant must be a health care provider interested to participate in the study for 2 years and understand the protocol and provide consent
- ECHO PARTICIPANT: Able to read and understand English as assessed by principal investigator (PI)
Exclusion criteria
- Unable to understand and sign consent
Where
- Houston, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations