Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate a New Tool to Support Patient Decision-making on Transplant Centers

Patients are not always aware of listing criteria and offer acceptance across transplant programs. Factors such as age and body mass index can impact access to transplants as centers have different candidate criteria. Therefore, we created a transplant center search tool (transplantcentersearch.org) (TCST) to help patients find comparative information on transplant programs. We conducted a cross-over randomized controlled trial (RCT) to assess whether the TCST improved comprehension compared to the existing Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients website among adults seeking kidney transplants at two centers. To assess comprehension participants were asked to use the TCST and the SRTR website to identify which transplant program within a prespecified area had the most recipients over 70 years of age; and which programs had the most recipients with BMI >40. Participants were asked to provide qualitative feedback on using both websites. Sixty-eight candidates participated in the RCT. Participants were more likely to identify the correct program when using the TCST compared to the existing SRTR website (OR 8.13, 95% CI 1.87–35.33). Participants stated they preferred the TCST over the SRTR website (52.9% vs. 25.0%, respectively, p = 0.009). With increased comprehension, patients would be better equipped to identify programs that transplant patients like them.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03610555