ER program helps patients talk about end-of-life wishes
NCT ID NCT05209880
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study tested a program called ED GOAL that helps older adults with serious illnesses like heart failure or cancer discuss their end-of-life wishes with doctors and family, starting in the emergency department. Researchers enrolled 141 patients and measured whether the program increased advance care planning engagement one month later. The goal is to help patients get care that matches their values.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- ED GOAL behavioral intervention
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this program could help more seriously ill patients have their end-of-life wishes respected and reduce unwanted medical treatments.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 141 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The program relies on patient willingness to discuss difficult topics.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
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