Cluster Randomised Trial of Malaria RDTs Used by CHWs in Afghanistan (NCT01403350) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedPhase 4
Cluster Randomised Trial of Malaria RDTs Used by CHWs in Afghanistan
Afghanistan2,421 participantsStarted 2012-02
Plain-language summary
Malaria is a common, but decreasing, cause of fever in endemic areas. The use of rapid diagnostic tests could improve treatment of malaria at the local community level. Deployment of these tests is, however, a considerable cost. The aim of the study is to evaluate their effect on improving treatment of fever when used by Community Health Workers in Afghanistan. In phase I of the study, the hypothesis is that an RDT diagnosis deployed with standard training and support will improve the accuracy of treatment applied to fever by community health workers when compared to a diagnosis that is based on symptoms alone. In Phase II of the study, the hypothesis is that the accuracy of treatment can be improved by additional training and supportive interventions given to community health workers compared to those who have only had standard training.
Who can participate
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Any patient where the CHW\* or clinician considers malaria in the diagnosis - either prescribing an antimalarial or would request a malaria test if available or referring for diagnosis of malaria elsewhere.
\* \*any community health worker who consults with patients and prescribes treatment, and is administratively attached to one of the study clinics.
* Patient, or parent/guardian, gives informed consent to the study.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Patients with a diagnostic result from another facility.
* Patients referred on for diagnosis in the private sector.
* Patients who have signs of severe or complicated disease and are referred prior to giving any diagnosis using the interventions.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Proportion of cases correctly treated
Timeframe: Outcomes measured during consultation - approximately 30-40 minutes
Trial details
NCT IDNCT01403350
SponsorLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine