Feasibility of a Technology-Based Intervention for Depression Referral Uptake in Cancer Survivors

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)

Status: Enrolling

Conditions: Depression; Cancer

Treatments: Behavioral: Technology-Enabled Tailored Referral

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT07091968

Pro00142801

Details and patient eligibility

About

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.

Full 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.

Enrollment: 60 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18+ years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

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

Trial design

Primary purpose: Supportive Care

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: None (Open label)

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60 participants in 2 patient groups

Technology-Enabled Tailored Referral

Experimental group

Description:

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.

Treatment:

Behavioral: Technology-Enabled Tailored Referral

Usual Care Referral

No Intervention group

Description:

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.