Feasibility of a Technology-Based Intervention for Depression Referral Uptake in Cancer Survivors
Purpose
Depression is very common in cancer survivors but there are challenges to linking those in need of treatment efficiently to care. In this study, investigators will test the feasibility and acceptability of a new text-based approach to connect cancer survivors with depression with care.
Conditions
- Cancer
- Depression
Eligibility
- Eligible Ages
- Over 18 Years
- Eligible Sex
- All
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria
- age > 18 years - diagnosis of cancer - upcoming appointment in an HCC or HCN oncology clinic within 14 days - English proficiency - ownership of a cellphone with SMS text capability. - elevated depressive symptoms at screening (as measured by > 3 on the PHQ-2)
Exclusion Criteria
- cognitive impairment as evaluated by attending physician - currently receiving counseling for depression
Study Design
- Phase
- N/A
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Intervention Model
- Parallel Assignment
- Primary Purpose
- Supportive Care
- Masking
- None (Open Label)
Arm Groups
| Arm | Description | Assigned Intervention |
|---|---|---|
|
Experimental Technology-Enabled Tailored Referral |
Participants in the intervention arm will receive a technology-enabled, text-based referral platform designed to improve depression referral uptake. The platform includes an initial text with a brief video explaining common barriers, tailored text messages based on participant-identified barriers, and an automated referral link. Messages are mapped to stages of readiness using the Transtheoretical Model and sent every two days over a two-week period to non-responders or decliners. This approach aims to engage survivors with depression care through personalized, accessible, and stage-matched communication. |
|
|
No Intervention Usual Care Referral |
Participants in the usual care arm will receive a printed flyer with information on local and virtual mental health treatment resources. The flyer includes contact details for emergency services, psychiatric urgent care, psychological oncology programs, support groups, and behavioral health clinics in the Charleston area, many of which offer telehealth options. No personalized messages or follow-up outreach will be provided. |
|
Recruiting Locations
More Details
- Status
- Recruiting
- Sponsor
- Medical University of South Carolina
Detailed Description
The objectives of this study are 1) to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a technology-enabled approach to improve referral uptake among cancer survivors and 2) to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of this approach to improve referral uptake compared to usual care among cancer survivors.
