Impact of the Mental Health and Dynamic Referral for Oncology (MHADRO) Program on Oncology Patient Outcomes, Health Care Utilization, and Health Provider Behaviors: A Multi-Site Randomized Control Trial

Abstract Objective The MHADRO assesses psychosocial and medical needs, provides tailored feedback reports, and connects patients to mental health providers. This study examined the MHADRO’s effect on patient outcomes, health care utilization, and oncology provider documentation and behaviors. Methods 836 patients were part of a multi-site RCT and assessments were conducted at baseline, 2, 6 and 12 months. Results The intervention group engaged in less emergency calls to providers. There were no differences in psychosocial outcomes at follow up assessments. Providers of patients in the intervention group were more likely to: document psychosocial symptoms and history; refer to psychosocial services; encourage support groups; seek psychological evaluations during visits. Patients who agreed to a mental health referral had decreased hospitalizations, increased mental health care interactions, and stronger ratings of counseling potential benefits. This group also reported increased psychosocial distress at all follow-up assessments. Conclusion The MHADRO may increase access to mental health care, lessen utilization, and improve providers’ management of psychosocial needs, but does not appear to impact overall functioning over time. Practice Implications Providers are encouraged to consider incorporating programs, like the MHADRO, into patient care as they may have the potential to impact screening and management of patients’ psychosocial needs.