A letter and a website: could this boost advance care planning before surgery?
NCT ID NCT06090552
First seen Aug 11, 2026 · Last updated Aug 12, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial tests whether a program of letters, a website, reminders, and personal navigators can encourage adults aged 65 and older who are scheduled for elective surgery to complete advance care planning. The goal is to see if these tools help patients document their healthcare wishes, such as advance directives, within six months. The study will also measure how engaged patients feel with the process.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- A combination of behavioral interventions: a letter about advanced care planning, the PREPARE website, an advance directive form, reminders, and healthcare navigator assistance.
- What this could lead to
- If effective, this approach could help older adults ensure their healthcare wishes are documented and respected before surgery, potentially improving end-of-life care.
- What could go wrong
- The trial is large but relies on voluntary participation; some people may not engage with the materials, and the interventions may not significantly increase completion of advance directives.
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of California, Irvine
RECRUITINGIrvine, California, 92697, United States
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University of California, San Francisco
RECRUITINGSan Francisco, California, 94143, United States
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University of Minnesota
RECRUITINGMinneapolis, Minnesota, 55455, United States