Improving Quality of Care, Inclusivity, and Clinical Trial Participation in Black Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer
This clinical trial evaluates ways to improve quality of evidence-based care, access to biomarker testing, and improved access to participation in clinical trials for Black patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Research shows that there is a gap in cancer care for Black patients. Numerous factors contribute to this observed gap, including, but not limited to, access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, type of insurance coverage, and geographic location of residence. Additionally, Black patients are less likely to receive appropriate workups leading to a cancer diagnosis because of the mistrust in the existing system. Evidence-based care refers to using the best available information for decision-making and providing the best care. Biomarker tests are special tests that look for the presence of molecules or genetic sequences that give important information about specific tumors and can help doctors decide the best treatment for patients with these conditions. A patient navigator is a person who is trained to guide and support patients to find the appropriate care, including finding clinical trials for patients to enroll in. Having better access to evidence-based care, biomarker testing, and clinical trials may improve health outcomes in Black patients with gastrointestinal cancer.