Trial Information

Feasibility of a Team Approach for Discussing Prognosis and Treatment Goals With Patients Diagnosed With Advanced Breast Cancer

The new communication practice (T-PAT) is a team approach for discussing prognosis and
treatment goals. T-PAT is specifically designed to a) increase understanding of the
prognosis and treatment goal, b) decrease illness uncertainty, and c) help the patient
preserve hope for the future.This dedicated clinical visit features a structured discussion
of prognosis, treatment goals and options, and end of life concerns. The planned team
discussion will include information contributions for the treating medical oncologist, an
oncology nurse and social worker who currently work together to provide breast cancer care.

Primary Objectives:

1. Assess the feasibility of implementing the T-PAT prognosis discussion intervention.

2. Compare the effects of T-PAT vs. usual care on pertinent patient reported outcomes
including: a) understanding of the prognosis and treatment goal, b) illness
uncertainty, and c) hope.

- First, a survey will be administered to patients in the waiting room before the
next office visit. This should take 15-20 minutes.

- The second part involves participating in a scheduled appointment that will be
audio-recorded and focus on sharing information about the patient's illness.
Patients will be randomized to either participate in an appointment featuring new
communication practices (T-PAT)or a regular care appointment.

- The third part involves a 20 minute survey, after the appointment, with a member
of the study staff. This will take place over the telephone one or two days after
the appointment.

- The fourth part is completion of a written reflection on the patients
participation in the study, which will be returned in a pre-addressed, stamped
envelope. Generally, this should take about 15 minutes.