NCT06507930 · Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
The COMPASSION Study
What this study is about
The aim of this research study is to better understand the in-home hospice experience for participants, caregivers, hospice nurses, and oncology providers by conducting telehealth check-ins between participants and caregivers and oncology care teams.
View original scientific description
The aim of this research study is to better understand the in-home hospice experience for participants, caregivers, hospice nurses, and oncology providers by conducting telehealth check-ins between participants and caregivers and oncology care teams.
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 of any gender with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer
- Eligible for in-home hospice services and referred by DFCI clinical team to in-home hospice \</= 1 week before enrollment
- Ability to conduct video or phone check-ins, even if assistance required.
- Able to provide verbal consent with a willingness to take a survey at 4-6 weeks, if medically able
- Hospice setting is within Massachusetts
- Non-English language allowed but interpreter services must be present at each meeting and will be coordinated by scheduling team
- Willingness to provide a caregiver/loved one's contact information for survey contact at 4 weeks after enrollment
Exclusion criteria
- Unable to provide verbal consent
- Hospice care planned outside of a home setting (note: if participants start out in a home hospice setting but later transition their hospice care to an inpatient setting, enrollment is allowed as long as they started in a home setting)
- Hospice setting outside of Massachusetts
- Individuals who are under the age of 18, as this is not a project focused on pediatric patients.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Oct 9, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations