NCT06951919 · Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
HOBSCOTCH-MS-Efficacy Trial
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of the home-based intervention, HOBSCOTCH-MS to improve the quality of life and cognitive function in Service Members, Veterans and civilians who have multiple sclerosis with cognitive and memory problems (MS participants).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of the home-based intervention, HOBSCOTCH-MS to improve the quality of life and cognitive function in Service Members, Veterans and civilians who have multiple sclerosis with cognitive and memory problems (MS participants). This study will also assess the ability of the HOBSCOTCH-MS program to improve quality of life in caregivers of patients with multiple sclerosis and to reduce caregiver burden. Enrolling with a Caregiver is optional for MS participants. Investigators will compare two groups of MS participants and their Caregiver (enrolling with a Caregiver is optional): one who receives HOBSCOTCH-MS immediately (Group 1) and another group that will receive HOBSCOTCH-MS (Group 2) after a 3-month waiting period. Participants will be in the study for about 6 months total. HOBSCOTCH-MS 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. MS participants are asked to do short homework assignments and both MS and Caregiver participants are asked to 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). After completing the intervention, MS Participants and their Caregivers may also participate in an optional one-time Key Informant Interview for qualitative analysis in an effort to further adapt and improve the HOBSCOTCH-MS in the future.
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
- Age 20 - 75 years
- Diagnosis of relapsing or progressive MS
- Education of at least Grade 12 or GED
- Fluent in English
- Subjective cognitive and memory challenges
- Internet access
- Telephone access Inclusion Criteria - Caregiver Participant
- Fluent in English
- Caregiver to a MS Participant
- Participant MS has given permission to Caregiver to enroll with them
- Internet access
- Telephone access
Exclusion criteria
- Current diagnosed psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or substance use disorder).
- Other neurological disorder such as epilepsy, brain tumor, severe brain injury or mild to moderate brain injury with a history of 30 or more minutes' loss of consciousness, or other disorder that would confound the focus on MS
- Diagnosed developmental attention, learning, or intellectual disorder; sensory, motor, or physical disability that would prevent engagement with the intervention or render the person unable complete study outcome measures
- Exacerbation of MS symptoms (relapse) or ongoing steroid treatment within three months of study enrollment
- Significant visual impairment precluding reading or writing
- Lack of access to the technical resources (e.g., internet access, telephone) required for participation Exclusion Criteria - Caregiver Participant
- 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 Oct 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations