Ensuring Precision-Medicine Delivery for Veterans With Lung Cancer

Ensuring Precision-Medicine Delivery for Veterans With Lung Cancer

The goal of this study is to learn if using a lay VA volunteer, who will assist patients with education regarding precision medicine, can improve care quality and outcomes for Veteran patients with lung cancer.

Participants in the intervention group will receive 1:1 communication with a lay VA volunteer in addition to their usual clinical care. The lay VA volunteer will provide patients with education about precision medicine and support in their care. Researchers will compare a control group who will receive their usual oncology care as provided by clinical teams at the VA. There will be no change in their care.

All participants will be asked to complete a survey at the time of enrollment in the study, and also at 1 month. This survey will measure patient participation in their cancer care, satisfaction with healthcare decisions, and overall questions about knowledge of precision medicine.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients 18 years old that have been newly diagnosed with any stage of lung cancer.
• Patients must have the ability to understand and willingness to provide verbal consent.
• Participants must speak English.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to consent to the study, severe mental illness (e.g. schizophrenia) or institutionalization.
• Patients who anticipate moving care outside the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System within 6 months.