NCT07186218 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Symptom Monitoring With Supported Feedback in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease
What this study is about
Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are validated tools to reliably measure outcomes highly prioritized by patients, such as health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and symptoms, but the current clinical impact of PROMs is limited by a lack of evidence-based methods to incorporate them into routine care.
View original scientific description
Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are validated tools to reliably measure outcomes highly prioritized by patients, such as health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and symptoms, but the current clinical impact of PROMs is limited by a lack of evidence-based methods to incorporate them into routine care. Symptoms, which are highly prevalent among persons living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), substantially contribute to the reduced HRQOL experienced by this patient population. HRQOL spans several domains of wellbeing affected by disease, including physical, mental, and social health, functionality, and symptoms. Both HRQOL and symptom burden are consistently identified by patients with CKD as top clinical and research priorities. These issues are particularly salient to individuals living with advanced CKD, who suffer significant symptom burden that is often underrecognized and undertreated by nephrology providers, yet is a key factor considered by nephrologists for the timing of dialysis initiation. Randomized controlled trials of patients with other chronic illnesses show that routine assessment of symptoms with PROMs improves symptom burden, patient-provider communication, and HRQOL; yet, standardized approaches to regular symptom monitoring among patients with advanced CKD are lacking. This pilot, randomized trial of a PROM-based intervention for routine symptom reporting by patients with feedback of responses to nephrologists aims to address the lack of data on PROM use for symptom assessment in nephrology care. We will evaluate the implementation (reach, feasibility, and acceptability) and preliminary efficacy of monthly patient report of CKD-related symptoms using the electronic IPOS-Renal questionnaire with supported clinician follow-up for 12 months versus standard of care. This trial will utilize complementary quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate the implementation of the PROM-based intervention. The results of this pilot study will inform a definitive, cluster-randomized trial on the effect of a PROM-based symptom assessment intervention to improve HRQOL and clinical outcomes among patients living with advanced CKD.
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
- Adults (age ≥ 18 years)
- Advanced CKD, defined as at least two measurements of creatinine-based or cystatin C-based eGFR ≤ 30 mL/min/1.73m2 separated by at least 90 days in the preceding 12 months
- Able to provide consent to participate in the study
- Able to read and write in English
- Under the care of a nephrologist at a Mass General Brigham nephrology clinic
Exclusion criteria
- Terminal illness likely to lead to death within 6 months of participation
- Patients receiving dialysis treatment at the time of enrollment or scheduled to start dialysis therapy in the next 4 weeks
- Patients scheduled to receive a kidney transplant in the next 6 months
- Patients having their initial clinic visit (i.e., new to the clinic)
- Cognitive deficits that would preclude understanding of consent form and/or questionnaires
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 Jun 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations