VOICE: Values and Options in Cancer Care

Randomized Controlled Trial(RCT)of Patient, Caregiver and Physician Communication Coaching in Advanced Cancer

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a combined intervention for patients, caregivers and oncologists improves communication, quality of life, and quality of care.

The purpose of this study is to (a) determine whether a combined intervention for patients, caregivers and physicians improves communication regarding treatment choices and prognosis in cancer, (b) to determine whether the intervention improves patient and caregiver well-being, quality of life and sense of peace, and (c) to determine whether the intervention affects health services utilization.

Inclusion Criteria: Physicians

• Currently in clinical practice at participating institutions
• Oncologist that cares for patients with solid tumors
• Not planning to leave the practice during the next 6 months

Inclusion Criteria: Patients

• Currently a patient of an enrolled physician
• Age 21 years or older
• Diagnosis of advanced cancer
• Able to understand spoken English (study personnel will read materials to low literacy patients)

Inclusion Criteria: Caregivers

• Caregiver of a patient currently enrolled in the study
• Age 21 years or older
• Able to understand spoken English (study personnel will read materials to low literacy patients)

Exclusion Criteria: Physicians

• Non Physicians and physicians who are not oncologists
• Oncologists who exclusively care for patients with hematological malignancies
• Prior involvement in health-related coaching interventions

Exclusion Criteria: Patients

• Unable to complete orally-administered surveys in English
• Hospitalized or in hospice care at the time of recruitment
• Prior involvement in health-related coaching interventions
• Anticipating bone marrow transplantation or diagnosed with leukemia or lymphoma

Exclusion Criteria: Caregiver

Unable to complete orally-administered surveys in English