NCT04674267 · Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Resilience and Equity in Aging, Cancer, and Health (REACH)
(REACH)
What this study is about
The purpose of this multi-phase research study is to understand how consultation of cancer care with a geriatrician can best improve outcomes for older adults with gastrointestinal malignancies.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this multi-phase research study is to understand how consultation of cancer care with a geriatrician can best improve outcomes for older adults with gastrointestinal malignancies.
Interventions
OTHER
Phase 2 Intervention - Geriatric Co-Management
Participants will complete an electronic fitness assessment questionnaire - once completed, they will receive a score of "Robust", "Pre-Frail" or "Frail". Those who are "Pre-frail" or "Frail" will be randomized to meet with a study geriatrician for geriatric co-management in addition to usual oncology care. All participants will be followed for a duration of 1 year.
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility of electronic fitness assessment questionnaire (developed from Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment tool)
Time frame: 1 year
EFA questionnaire deployed to older adult patients age 70+ in the REACH study. Feasibility will be determined by the proportion of participants who consent to complete the electronic fitness assessment. The intervention will be considered feasible if 70% of participants consent to complete the fitness assessment.
Acceptability of electronic fitness assessment questionnaire
Time frame: 1 year
Acceptability of electronic fitness assessment questionnaire via the Patient Portal or internet-enabled device following second clinic visit among older adults diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer seeking consultation at DF/BWCC for medical, radiation, or surgical oncology. Acceptability will be determined by the proportion of participants who fully complete the EFA. The intervention will be considered acceptable if 60% of enrolled participants fully complete the EFA within 14 days of enrollment.
Association of geriatric consultation with number of unplanned ED visits/hospitalizations among older adult participants
Time frame: 1 year
Association of geriatrician consult with number of ED visits/hospitalizations among older adults diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer randomized to the geriatric consultation intervention. Randomization will be essential to evaluate the efficacy of geriatric consultation intervention in impacting unplanned ED visits and hospitalizations.
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
- Patients who are age 70+ at time of initial consult at DF/BWCC
- Diagnosed with a gastrointestinal cancer, including: cancers of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, bile duct, ampulla, colon, rectum, or anus, as well as neuroendocrine tumors.
- Continuing care at DF/BWCC beyond initial consult visit
- English and Spanish-speaking
Exclusion criteria
- Patients less than age 70 at time of initial consultation appointment with DF/BWCC.
- Patients who are not continuing care at DF/BWCC beyond first consult visit.
- Not proficient in English or Spanish
- Patient who are not considered appropriate for enrollment due to complex medical, social, or other situation as determined by their primary oncology team.
- Participants with psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Related conditions & keywords
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 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations