Developing a Self-Management Intervention to Improve Health Outcomes for Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

BEHAVIORAL

Digital self-management program

Participants will receive this 24-week digital self-management program that was developed for patients with inflammatory bowel disease in addition to standard care. The program will be accessed through the web or a mobile device and will include different modules that will help support in managing participant's symptoms and disease both in the short-term as well as helping to build habits and skills to support participants in managing disease long-term. Participants are not required to use the self-management program and may stop using it at any time without any penalty to standard inpatient treatment. Additionally, participants will be asked to complete a follow-up self-report questionnaire at week 8 and week 12, and a clinician assessment at week 12. After 24 weeks a final remote visit or video meeting will be completed.

BEHAVIORAL

Standard Care

Participants will have baseline assessment of symptoms both based on self-report and a clinician's assessment, and review the electronic health record for standard of care inflammatory biomarker measurements. In addition, questionnaires will be collected and visit completed at 8,12, and 24-week follow-ups.

Participant recruitment rate

Time frame: 2 years (during the recruitment period)

Feasibility will be defined by participant recruitment rate (the proportion of the proposed sample size who enroll to participate in the study over time). The study team hypothesize that the team will achieve a recruitment rate of 10 participants every 3 months.

The proportion of enrolled participants that complete the study without dropout

Time frame: 24 weeks

Feasibility will be defined by retention (the proportion enrolled participants who complete the study without dropout). The study team hypothesize that 70% participant retention at 24 weeks,

The proportion of study assessments completed by the participant

Time frame: 24 weeks

Feasibility willed be defined by the outcome assessment completion (the proportion of study assessments completed by participant). The study team hypothesize that 70% outcome data collection.

Qualitative interviews - self-management program group

Time frame: 24 weeks

Protocol acceptability will be determined based on post-intervention qualitative data. Discussion with participants will be facilitated by questions focusing on feedback about intervention characteristics, including content and functionality (e.g., usability, timing, frequency) and evaluate helpfulness, likes and dislikes, barriers and facilitators to use, and suggestions for improvement.

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.