NCT06075316 · UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Improving Thoracic Surgical Care Using Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes (ePROS)
What this study is about
This is a single-site, non-randomly assigned study on the outcomes of remote real-time "ePRO monitoring" in thoracic surgery patients. ePRO monitoring is a health information technology intervention comprised of delivering longitudinal electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) surveys (e.g.
View original scientific description
This is a single-site, non-randomized study on the outcomes of remote real-time "ePRO monitoring" in thoracic surgery patients. ePRO monitoring is a health information technology intervention comprised of delivering longitudinal electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) surveys (e.g., on symptoms, and physical functioning) coupled with automated provider alerts for concerning survey responses.
Interventions
OTHER
Symptom monitoring
Alerts will be sent to providers via email and/or the electronic medical record at pre-specified response thresholds. Providers will be instructed to respond to and document the management of alerts per their clinical routine.
Primary outcome measures
Reach of ePRO monitoring
Time frame: Months 4 through 6 after implementation of the study
Percentage of eligible thoracic surgery patients enrolling in ePRO monitoring.
Adoption of ePRO monitoring
Time frame: Months 4 through 6 after implementation of the study
Percentage of ePRO monitoring alerts sent that result in clinical action by providers within 1 week of delivery
Patient-level Uptake
Time frame: Months 4 through 6 after implementation of the study
the percentage of enrolled patients who participate in \>=1 ePRO survey.
Overall Reach of ePRO monitoring
Time frame: End of study
Percentage of eligible thoracic surgery patients enrolling in ePRO monitoring.
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 participating in ePRO monitoring must meet the following inclusion criteria to participate in this study:
- 18 years or older
- English or Spanish speaking
- Able to complete a web-based, telephonic (IVR), or CRA (or other IRB-approved research team member)-administrated symptom survey
- Planned to undergo major thoracic surgery (involving chest wall incisions and overnight admission)
- Discharged from the thoracic surgery service
- Discharged to home
Exclusion criteria
- All patients meeting any of the following exclusion criteria at enrollment will be excluded from study participation:
- Not completing planned surgery within 3 months of obtaining informed consent
- Inability to understand English or Spanish
- Having undergone only minor thoracic surgery (e.g. bronchoscopy, cervical mediastinoscopy)
- Dementia, altered mental status, or any psychiatric condition determined by the thoracic surgery provider team that would prohibit the understanding or rendering of informed consent.
- Current incarceration
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
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 Jul 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations