NCT06930846 · Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
HOBSCOTCH-CA (HOme-Based Self-management and COgnitive Training CHanges Lives in Brain CAncer)
(HOBSCOTCH-CA)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of the home-based intervention, HOBSCOTCH-CA, to improve the quality of life and cognitive function in Service Members, Veterans and civilians who are survivors of brain cancer or a brain tumor (CA participants).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of the home-based intervention, HOBSCOTCH-CA, to improve the quality of life and cognitive function in Service Members, Veterans and civilians who are survivors of brain cancer or a brain tumor (CA participants). This study will also assess the ability of the HOBSCOTCH-CA program to improve quality of life in caregivers of patients with brain cancer/tumor and to reduce caregiver burden. Enrolling with a Caregiver is optional for CA participants. Investigators will compare two groups of CA participants and their Caregiver (enrolling with a Caregiver is optional): one who receives HOBSCOCTCH-CA immediately (Group 1) and another group that will receive HOBSCOTCH-CA (Group 2) after a 3-month waiting period. Participants will be in the study for about 6 months total. HOBSCOTCH-CA involves 45 to 60 minute one on one virtual sessions with a certified Cognitive Coach including a "pre" program session and 8 weekly sessions thereafter. Participants will learn about problem solving therapy and mindfulness or relaxation training. CA participants are asked to do short homework assignments and keep a brief daily diary on a smart phone app. All participants complete study questionnaires or surveys at enrollment, 3 months later and at 6 months (at the end of the study).
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.
Exclusion criteria
- . Inclusion Criteria 2. - 5. and Exclusion Criteria 1. - 3. will be confirmed by referring providers. Participants who learn about the study here and elsewhere will be instructed on how to confirm their eligibility with their provider. Inclusion Criteria for CA Participant:
- Service members, Veterans and civilians with a diagnosis of brain cancer (excluding glioblastoma)
- Diagnosis of primary brain tumor with expected survival of 2 years or greater (e.g., low-grade glioma, oligodendroglioma, IDH mutant astrocytoma, meningioma) defined as the presence of a primary lesion on neuroimaging (CT or MRI), confirmed by histopathological examination (Note: some patients being treated for meningioma may be treated with radiotherapy without need for initial histopathologic confirmation)
- Patients undergoing surgical and/or radiation therapy will have completed their treatment at least 3 months prior to being enrolled in trial (Note: patients receiving chemotherapy or other systemic therapy will be included)
- Stable on all CNS acting medications for one month prior to enrollment
- Subjective cognitive complaints
- Literate and proficient in English
- Internet access for the pre-session and Session 1 of the HOBSCOTCH-CA program; telephone access for sessions 2-8 Exclusion Criteria for CA Participant:
- Presence of a neurodegenerative disease (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease)
- Acute psychiatric disorder or substance abuse
- Patients with glioblastoma (GBM) Inclusion Criteria for CA Participant Caregiver:
- Caregiver to a patient with a confirmed diagnosis of brain cancer/tumor survivor
- CA Subject has given permission for their caregiver to participate
- Literate and proficient in English
- Internet access (for Pre-HOBSCOTCH and Session 1)
- Telephone access (for Session 8) Exclusion Criteria for CA Participant Caregiver:
- Significant visual impairment precluding reading or writing
- No reliable telephone or internet access
Where
- Lebanon, New Hampshire
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 Nov 21, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations