The social and behavioral influences (SBI) study: study design and rationale for studying the effects of race and activation on cancer pain management.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Racial disparities exist in the care provided to advanced cancer patients. This article describes an investigation designed to advance the science of healthcare disparities by isolating the effects of patient race and patient activation on physician behavior using novel standardized patient (SP) methodology.

Methods/design

The Social and Behavioral Influences (SBI) Study is a National Cancer Institute sponsored trial conducted in Western New York State, Northern/Central Indiana, and lower Michigan. The trial uses an incomplete randomized block design, randomizing physicians to see patients who are either black or white and who are "typical" or "activated" (e.g., ask questions, express opinions, ask for clarification, etc.). The study will enroll 91 physicians.

SUBMITTER: Elias CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6389115 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature