Clinical trials are the backbone of medical progress, driving the development of new treatments. However, a major challenge is keeping patients engaged throughout the study. Moreover, high dropout rates can delay research, increase costs, and compromise data quality. One primary reason patients leave clinical trials is the burden of participation, which can include frequent visits, complex protocols, or side effects.
To learn more about why clinical trial patient retention strategies are crucial and how to keep participants engaged, read on for practical tips and strategies.
Why Do Patients Drop Out?
Understanding why patients drop out of clinical trials is the first step toward improving clinical trial retention. Recruiting patients for clinical trials is a significant hurdle for the industry. Moreover, with 85% of trials falling short of their enrollment goals and 80% experiencing delays due to recruitment issues, it’s clear that innovative solutions are needed to overcome these challenges.
Additionally, both the clinical trial recruitment and retention stages require taking a patient-centric approach to clinical trial design is a must to set your trial up for success.
Furthermore, patients are likely to change their minds after reading the protocol or no longer being interested is one of the bigger problems of clinical trials which leads to a higher dropout rate. However, there are many reasons for dropout. Common reasons for dropout include:
- Inconvenient location
- Schedule Conflicts
- Personal or family matter
- Physically Unable
- Complex Protocols
- Side Effects
- Lack of Engagement
- Fear and Anxiety
The Importance of Patient Retention
Clinical trial retention is one of the largest challenges facing sites, sponsors, and CROs. The Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation found that 23% of participants who enroll in a study don’t complete it.
Moreover, the average trial already faces delays of 1-6 months because of recruitment shortages. Losing one-quarter of the patients who enrolled can cause trial timelines to stretch out even longer and can cost sponsors $6-$8 million per day.
Furthermore, the implications of patient dropout extend beyond just financial losses. The integrity of the data collected can be compromised, leading to potentially inconclusive or skewed results. This makes it even more challenging to achieve the study’s primary endpoints. Consequently, the entire research process can be jeopardized, delaying the introduction of new treatments to the market and impacting patient care.
Also Read: The Importance of Clinical Trials & Benefits of Clinical Research
10 Tips for Patient Retention
Now, let’s look into some clinical trial retention strategies to keep participants engaged and motivated throughout the study.
Build Strong Relationship
Building relationships with patients is not just important; it’s essential. Regular, friendly communication can make a huge difference. Additionally, when patients feel valued and understood, they are more likely to stay engaged. Moreover, personalized communication, such as checking in on their well-being and addressing their concerns promptly, can foster trust and loyalty.
Simplify the Process
Complex protocols are a major deterrent. Simplify the protocol and inform the patients about the trial process in simplified manner. Additionally, reduce the number of required visits, minimize invasive procedures, and streamline the paperwork. Using technology, like virtual visits and electronic diaries can also make participation easier and more convenient.
Provide Clear Information
Patients need to understand the trial, its purpose, and what’s expected of them. Clear, concise information helps reduce anxiety and uncertainty. Additionally, use plain language and visual aids to explain complex medical terms and procedures. Furthermore, regular updates about the trial’s progress can also keep participants informed and motivated in turn improving clinical trial retention.
Offer Support
Support services, such as transportation assistance or childcare, can remove barriers to participation. Additionally, offering psychological support to address any anxiety or stress related to the trial can also be beneficial. When participants know they have support, they’re more likely to stay committed and connect with the team and this improves clinical trial retention.
Address Side Effects Promptly
Side effects are a common reason for dropout. Ensure that there is a robust system in place to monitor and manage side effects. Furthermore, quick intervention and support can help mitigate the impact of adverse reactions and keep participants in the trial. Moreover, before the clinical trial, ensure the patient is informed about the possible treatment risks.
Incentivize Participation
Incentives can be a great motivator. Furthermore, offer compensation for time and travel, or small rewards for completing different stages of the trial. However, ensure that these incentives are ethical and appropriate to avoid bias.
Use Modern Technology
Leverage technology to enhance patient engagement. Mobile apps, wearables, and online portals can facilitate easier communication, monitoring, and data collection. These tools can make participation less burdensome and more integrated into daily life. Additionally, they provide real-time feedback and support, helping patients feel more connected and improve clinical trial retention.
Continuous Feedback
Regular feedback from participants can provide valuable insights into their experiences and challenges. Take this feedback and make necessary adjustments and improvements in the trial. Furthermore, when participants see that their input is valued and acted upon, they are more likely to stay engaged. If patients know they are being heard and understood, it gives them a sense of belonging. Moreover, making patients feel safe and included in the trial process is essential for clinical trial retention.
Focus on Recruitment
Effective recruitment is key to successful patient retention. Thoroughly screen potential participants to ensure they’re suitable for the study. Additionally, provide clear and complete trial information, including potential difficulties, upfront. This attracts highly qualified and interested patients. Additionally, target your outreach where your patient community is active, both online and offline. Furthermore, social media is a powerful tool to reach a vast audience and increase clinical trial retention.
Celebrate Milestones
Recognizing and celebrating their achievements throughout the trial reinforces their sense of purpose and motivation. Additionally, by acknowledging their contributions, you not only boost morale but also strengthen the participant-researcher relationship. This in turn fosters a positive and collaborative environment and increases clinical trial retention.
Also Read: What Is Decentralized Clinical Trials: Everything You Need to Know
Conclusion
Clinical trial retention is a significant challenge, but with the right strategies, it can be improved. By focusing on building strong relationships, simplifying processes, providing clear information, and offering support, we can enhance patient retention.
Furthermore, clinical trial retention is not just about keeping numbers up; it’s about ensuring that participants feel valued and supported throughout their journey. By making patients feel appreciated, we can improve trial outcomes, accelerate the development of new treatments, and ultimately, make a positive impact.
