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Holistic CareS&S WellnessNCT07452900

Using Integrated Care and Wearable Technology to Evaluate Outcomes of the Shields & Stripes Program for Veterans and First Responders

An observational study of Holistic Care and Mental Health, run by Baylor University at 1 site in United States.

Not yet recruiting

Opening soon. The study is approved but enrolment has not started yet. Sites may already take enquiries.

Sites and contacts
Official record
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Trial summary

This study aims to evaluate outcomes from the Shields \& Stripes (S\&S) program - a 12-week, multidisciplinary wellness intervention designed for veterans and first responders. The S\&S program integrates occupational therapy (OT), mental health (MH), physical therapy (PT), and registered dietitian (RD) services to… Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 18 to 70 years
Conditions the study is for
Holistic Care, Mental Health, Sleep
How many people
80 participants
Where
1 siteUnited States
Study dates
1 Apr 2026to 30 Apr 2027
Phase
Observational
Are there results?
Not yet: the study is under way

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 18 to 70 years
  • All sexes
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult, Older adult

Study population: The study population consists of U.S. military veterans and first responders who have participated in the Shields \& Stripes 12-week multidisciplinary wellness program. The program integrates occupational therapy, mental health, physical therapy, and nutrition services. All data analyzed will be collected post-program completion, making the study primarily retrospective.

Who may be able to join

  • Adults aged 18-70 years
  • Current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces or first responder professions (e.g., law enforcement, firefighting, EMS)
  • Participants who completed the Shields \& Stripes holistic wellness program
  • Providers who worked within the Shields and Stripes program.

Who cannot join

  • -None

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.

Kelli Cabrera, OTD contact

413-561-6105

kelli_Cabrera@baylor.edu

United States1 site
  • Baylor University - Department of Occupational Therapy

    Waco, Texas, 76798

    Kelli Cabrera, OTD, 413-561-6105, kelli_Cabrera@baylor.edu

Other trials in United States

About this study

Official title: Evaluating Integrated Care and Wearable Technology Outcomes in the Shields & Stripes Program for Veterans and First Responders: A Retrospective Mixed-Methods Study

This study aims to evaluate outcomes from the Shields \& Stripes (S\&S) program - a 12-week, multidisciplinary wellness intervention designed for veterans and first responders. The S\&S program integrates occupational therapy (OT), mental health (MH), physical therapy (PT), and registered dietitian (RD) services to promote recovery, resilience, and performance in individuals who have experienced cumulative stress, trauma exposure, or occupational burnout.

This research will use a retrospective mixed-methods observational design to analyze data collected from previous S\&S participants who consent to research use of their de-identified information. No intervention or treatment changes will occur as part of this study.

Read more

Quantitative data will include biometric information (e.g., sleep, activity, and heart rate variability via Oura Ring), standardized self-report measures (GAD-7, PHQ-9, PCL-5, RAND-36, PSQI, ISI), satisfaction surveys, and laboratory nutrition panels. Qualitative data will include semi-structured interviews with consenting participants and S\&S providers following program completion.

The purpose of the study is to identify patterns of improvement in physical, psychological, and occupational functioning and to explore how integrated, team-based care supports holistic recovery. Findings may inform the development of future evidence-based wellness programs for military and first-responder populations.

Participation involves minimal risk, and all data will be de-identified before analysis.

Read the detailed description

Study Overview This retrospective mixed-methods observational study evaluates the effectiveness of the Shields \& Stripes (S\&S) program, a 12-week integrated wellness model that combines occupational therapy (OT), mental health (MH) services, physical therapy (PT), and registered dietitian (RD) support. The program serves veterans and first responders who experience cumulative physical, cognitive, and emotional stress related to their service.

The study will retrospectively analyze quantitative and qualitative data from S\&S cohorts between 2024-2026 to assess changes in health, functioning, and quality of life.

Objectives

Evaluate changes in physical, psychological, and occupational functioning following participation in S\&S.

Explore relationships between biometric indicators (e.g., heart-rate variability, sleep, activity) and self-reported well-being.

Examine trends in nutrition and metabolic markers across cohorts.

Analyze participant and provider perspectives through qualitative interviews to better understand mechanisms of change and perceived program value.

Design and Methods

Design: Convergent mixed-methods retrospective observational study.

Quantitative Data: Includes biometric data (sleep, HRV, activity), self-report scales (GAD-7, PHQ-9, PCL-5, RAND-36, PSQI, ISI), and laboratory measures (cholesterol, glucose regulation, vitamin D, testosterone, thyroid, inflammatory markers, etc.).

Qualitative Data: Semi-structured interviews with consenting participants and providers conducted post-program (via teleconference).

Participants: Veterans and first responders aged 18-70 who have completed the S\&S program and program providers who have worked within the S\&S program.

Recruitment: No direct external recruitment will occur for this study. All participants will be drawn from existing Shields \& Stripes program cohorts and affiliated program providers, which utilize processes separate from this research.

Data Handling: All data will be de-identified prior to analysis; stored securely on encrypted, access-restricted cloud servers.

Primary Outcomes

Change in self-reported anxiety (GAD-7)

Change in depressive symptoms (PHQ-9)

Change in PTSD symptoms (PCL-5)

Change in sleep (PSQI and ISI)

Change in quality of life (RAND-36)

Change in sleep quality and recovery metrics (Oura Ring data)

Secondary Outcomes

Changes in nutritional and metabolic lab results (e.g., cholesterol, glucose, vitamin D, thyroid function).

Qualitative themes related to perceived program benefit, barriers, and provider perspectives.

Duration and Setting Data will be collected retrospectively from cohorts between 2024-2026. The study will take place remotely with data stored and analyzed by the research team.

Risk and Safeguards The study is minimal risk. No interventions or procedures are performed beyond standard program participation. Risks are limited to potential discomfort during interviews and minimal risk of confidentiality breach, mitigated through HIPAA-compliant data handling.

Expected Impact Results will inform how multidisciplinary programs combining OT, MH, PT, and RD services improve functional, psychological, and physiological outcomes among high-stress occupational populations. The study aims to contribute to the evidence base for integrated, holistic wellness approaches for veterans and first responders.

Keywords
Shields & Stripes, Veterans, First Responders, Occupational Therapy, Mental Health, Physical Therapy, Registered Dietitian, Integrated Wellness, Biometric Data, Oura Ring, Sleep, Heart Rate Variability, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Quality of Life, Holistic Health, Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation, Functional Outcomes
Medical subject headings
Psychological Well-Being, Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic, Anxiety Disorders, Depression

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

Study groups in NCT07452900
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
Shields & Stripes Program ParticipantsParticipants include veterans and first responders who have completed the 12-week Shields \& Stripes holistic wellness program. The program integrates occupational therapy, mental health, physical therapy, and registered dietitian services to address physical, psychological, and occupational functioning. Data analyzed for this study include de-identified biometric, psychological, and laboratory outcomes collected as part of standard program procedures. Past and present program providers will also serve as participants to gain a better understanding of the program and its impact. No additional interventions are introduced for research purposes.

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Change in Psychological Functioning Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale

    To assess changes in anxiety symptoms before and after participation in the 12-week Shields \& Stripes program using validated self-report measures.

    Score range: 0 to 21

    Higher scores indicate: Worse anxiety symptoms

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  2. Change in Psychological Functioning utilizing Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)

    To assess changes in depression symptoms before and after participation in the 12-week Shields \& Stripes program using validated self-report measures.

    Score range: 0 to 27

    Higher scores indicate: Worse depressive symptoms

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  3. Change in Psychological Functioning utilizing the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)

    To assess changes in post-traumatic stress symptoms before and after participation in the 12-week Shields \& Stripes program using validated self-report measures.

    Score range: 0 to 80

    Higher scores indicate: Worse PTSD symptoms

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

Secondary outcomes (19)
  1. Change in Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

    Change in heart rate variability as measured by the Oura Ring wearable device. HRV will be reported as the nightly average root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD).

    Time Frame:

    Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    Milliseconds (ms)

    Directionality:

    Higher values indicate better autonomic nervous system balance and recovery.

    Measured: Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

  2. Change in Sleep Quality - Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)

    Change in sleep quality as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a validated 19-item self-report questionnaire assessing sleep quality and disturbances over the past month.

    Time Frame:

    Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    Total PSQI global score (range: 0 to 21)

    Directionality:

    Higher scores indicate worse sleep quality.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  3. Change in Health-Related Quality of Life - RAND 36-Item Health Survey (RAND-36)

    Change in health-related quality of life as measured by the RAND 36-Item Health Survey (RAND-36), a validated self-report questionnaire assessing eight domains including physical functioning, role limitations (physical and emotional), energy/fatigue, emotional well-being, social functioning, pain, and general health perceptions.

    Time Frame:

    Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    RAND-36 subscale scores transformed to a 0-100 scale.

    Directionality:

    Higher scores indicate better health-related quality of life and functioning.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  4. Change in Total Cholesterol

    Change in total cholesterol measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mg/dL

    Directionality:

    Lower values indicate improved lipid profile.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  5. Qualitative Themes from Semi-Structured Interviews

    Participant and provider feedback will be collected using a semi-structured interview guide developed for this study. Thematic analysis will identify recurring themes related to participant satisfaction, perceived effectiveness, and experiences with integrated occupational therapy, mental health, physical therapy, and nutrition services.

    Time Frame: Post-Program (within 4 weeks of completion) Unit of Measure: Not applicable (qualitative thematic analysis)

    Measured: Post-Program (within 4 weeks of completion)

  6. Change in Physical Function and Performance (PSFS)

    Change in self-reported physical function measured by the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), reflecting improvements in self-identified functional goals and mobility.

    Time Frame: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12) Unit of Measure: Mean PSFS total score (0-10 scale) Directionality: Higher scores indicate better functional performance

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  7. Change in Sleep Duration

    Change in total nightly sleep duration as measured by the Oura Ring wearable device.

    Time Frame:

    Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    Hours (or minutes - choose one and stay consistent)

    Directionality:

    Higher values indicate longer sleep duration

    Measured: Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

  8. Change in Sleep Efficiency

    Change in sleep efficiency as measured by the Oura Ring wearable device. Sleep efficiency is calculated as the percentage of time in bed spent asleep.

    Time Frame:

    Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    Percentage (%)

    Directionality:

    Higher values indicate better sleep quality.

    Measured: Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

  9. Change in Resting Heart Rate

    Change in resting heart rate as measured by the Oura Ring wearable device.

    Time Frame:

    Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    Beats per minute (bpm)

    Directionality:

    Lower values generally indicate better cardiovascular fitness and recovery.

    Measured: Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

  10. Change in Physical Activity Level

    Change in average daily activity level as measured by the Oura Ring wearable device.

    Unit of Measure:

    Oura Activity Score (0-100 scale)

    Directionality:

    Higher values indicate greater physical activity.

    Measured: Pre-Program (T-4 weeks), Program Start (Week 0), and Post-Program (Week 12)

  11. Change in Insomnia Severity - Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)

    Change in insomnia symptom severity as measured by the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), a validated 7-item self-report questionnaire assessing perceived insomnia severity.

    Time Frame:

    Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

    Unit of Measure:

    Total ISI score (range: 0 to 28)

    Directionality:

    Higher scores indicate more severe insomnia symptoms.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  12. Change in HDL Cholesterol

    Change in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mg/dL

    Directionality:

    Higher values indicate improved lipid profile.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  13. Change in LDL Cholesterol

    Change in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mg/dL

    Directionality:

    Lower values indicate improved lipid profile.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  14. Change in Triglycerides

    Description:

    Change in triglyceride levels measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mg/dL

    Directionality:

    Lower values indicate improved lipid profile.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  15. Change in Fasting Glucose

    Description:

    Change in fasting blood glucose measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mg/dL

    Directionality:

    Lower values indicate improved glycemic control.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  16. Change in Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)

    Description:

    Change in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a measure of average blood glucose over approximately three months, measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    Percent (%)

    Directionality:

    Lower values indicate improved glycemic control.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  17. Change in High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

    Description:

    Change in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), a biomarker of systemic inflammation, measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mg/L

    Directionality:

    Lower values indicate reduced systemic inflammation.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  18. Change in Vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D)

    Description:

    Change in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    ng/mL

    Directionality:

    Higher values indicate improvement toward normal vitamin D status.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

  19. Change in Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

    Description:

    Change in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels measured via standard laboratory testing.

    Unit of Measure:

    mIU/L

    Directionality:

    Movement toward the normal reference range indicates improved thyroid function.

    Measured: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted5 Mar 2026
  2. Study start1 Apr 2026 (estimated)
  3. Primary completion31 Dec 2026 (estimated)
  4. Study completion30 Apr 2027 (estimated)

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Observational
Observational model
Cohort
Time perspective
Retrospective
Enrolment
80 participants (estimated)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT07452900
Sponsor's protocol ID
BU_SANDS_2025_01
Acronym
S&S Wellness
Status last verified
Mar 2026
First submitted
12 Nov 2025
Last updated
10 Mar 2026
Results posted
No
Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
No: This study involves retrospective analysis of de-identified data collected from participants in the Shields \& Stripes program. Individual participant data (IPD) will not be shared with other researchers outside the study team. Only aggregated, de-identified results will be reported in publications and presentations.

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

An observational study of Holistic Care and Mental Health, run by Baylor University at 1 site in United States.

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 1 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 10 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in United States. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

Contact Kelli Cabrera, OTD (413-561-6105, kelli_Cabrera@baylor.edu), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Change in Psychological Functioning Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale (time frame: Baseline (Week 0) to Post-Program (Week 12)). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 10 Mar 2026.

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