5 Ways To Improve Patient Centricity In Clinical Trials

In the world of clinical trials, there's a growing realization that success isn't just about the science—it's also about the people participating in the studies. Patient-centricity, which focuses on putting patients at the heart of the trial process, is becoming increasingly important. But what does it mean to be patient-centric, and how can trials be designed to truly reflect this?

What is patient-centricity in clinical trials?

Patient-centric means considering the patient’s needs, experiences, and perspectives throughout the clinical trial process. It goes beyond enrolling participants in a study to understanding and addressing their concerns, making the process as smooth and convenient as possible, and ensuring they feel heard and valued every step of the way.

In practical terms, this could mean designing trial protocols that fit into a patient's daily life, using clear and simple language to explain complex medical information, or offering flexible options that allow them to participate without too much disruption. It’s about shifting the focus from what’s easiest for the researchers to what’s best for the patients. When trials are patient-centric, participants are more likely to feel like active partners in the research rather than just study subjects. Sponsors can achieve end-to-end patient centricity by integrating tools and support systems that accommodate these factors into a study from the beginning.

Here are five practical ways to improve patient centricity in clinical trials:

1. Involve Patients Early in the Design Process

To create a more patient-centered approach, sponsors and study teams should involve patients in the study design process. This means going beyond gathering feedback through surveys and forming ongoing, collaborative relationships where patients actively contribute to decision-making. A peer-reviewed study suggests engaging at least two patients as equal partners in the research process and using terms like "co-planning" to encourage meaningful participation. Including patients from diverse backgrounds is also important to ensure a broad range of experiences. However, researchers should be aware of potential biases that may arise from the long-term involvement of patient partners, as they may lose their perspective. The deep involvement of study participants leads to more relevant, patient-centered research, higher enrollment and retention rates, and outcomes that truly matter to patients.

2. Simplify Communication and Consent Processes

One key way to ensure patient-centricity is by using clear, jargon-free language from recruitment through the end of the study. When utilizing friendly communication to boost recruitment and enrollment, it's essential to address common patient questions like, "Is there a research site near me?" or "Am I eligible?" Providing a list of inclusion/exclusion criteria helps patients quickly assess whether the trial suits them. It's crucial to outline what they can expect if they pre-qualify and how to proceed with trial participation.

Communication should remain straightforward throughout the study, simplifying processes such as consent signing, visit reminders, and medication adherence. With the right system, your site teams can send text reminders and updates, allowing patients to easily respond with schedule changes or confirmations. This offers convenience and creates a personal connection between site staff and patients, helping them feel more engaged and valued.

At Studypages, we recognize the importance of clear communication in clinical trials. Our technology includes distinct tools to ensure study teams can effectively communicate with participants. From user-friendly study microsites with easily digestible information to e-consent forms, tailored surveys, and web-based chat messaging, our platform empowers teams to reach and engage participants clearly and efficiently.

3. Provide Personalized Support Throughout the Trial

It must be considered how important it is to keep patients engaged throughout the trial period. This is a significant step in making trials patient-centric. Providing personalized support can mean the difference between a patient dropping out and staying the course. This support might come in regular check-ins, educational resources tailored to the patient’s condition, or even a dedicated patient liaison or navigator who can answer questions and provide reassurance. There's also the need for ongoing feedback loops to address patient concerns in real time.

4. Enhance Accessibility and Convenience

Making trials as accessible and convenient as possible is crucial to ensure patient-centricity. Decentralized trials, which allow patients to participate from home using digital tools and remote monitoring, are a great way to achieve this. For example, researchers can use wearable devices to collect data remotely instead of requiring patients to travel long distances to a trial site. Offering flexible scheduling and local trial sites also helps reduce the burden on participants, making it easier for them to stick with the study. In a study where we partnered with a team to move their trial from hybrid to fully remote, the study achieved up to 82% completion rates by moving to decentralized and incorporating digital trial technology.

In cases where decentralized trials are not feasible, teams can reduce the burden of participation and improve convenience by providing transportation to trial sites, as well as offering fair compensation.

5. Utilize digital tools to Streamline Study Operations

Contrary to common belief, enhancing patient centricity in clinical trials isn’t just about focusing on patients; it also requires robust support for study teams, who handle most participant-centered tasks. These teams need effective processes to collect and analyze patient data throughout recruitment and enrollment. Implementing digital pre-screening tools helps gather critical insights, like reasons for early trial declinations—whether due to perceived risks or logistical issues.

By integrating a patient enrollment management platform, study teams can seamlessly share information, enabling real-time adjustments that enhance trial relevance and participant engagement. Improving internal collaboration and operational efficiency empowers teams to meet patient needs better and maintain a patient-centric focus throughout the trial. At Studypages, we are committed to improving the patient-centricity of trials and streamlining study operations. Our integrated trial technology is perfect for ensuring that the participant remains at the center of the study while promoting collaboration within the study team to free up time and enhance functionality. Our intelligent workflow automation and patient-facing features ensure that trials are participant-focused and operationally streamlined, facilitating better outcomes for all involved.

Stay connected with us as we strive to achieve a world where study operations are perfectly streamlined to promote productivity and participants remain central in the trial process.