SERVICES
PATIENT ENGAGEMENT IN CLINICAL TRIALS
WHAT IS PATIENT COMPLIANCE & RETENTION?
Patient compliance and patient retention in clinical trials are key components of conducting a successful study. The overall patient experience is paramount. If the patient participants in a study find the paperwork cumbersome or stressful, many will not comply promptly or provide a full log that is critically needed for investigators, and other members of the clinical research team, to be able to efficiently and accurately compile the data and conduct their necessary analysis. Patient non-compliance (i.e., not completing diaries or not using their wearables) or dropping out of a study altogether creates a multitude of issues, including steep financial losses, which can threaten a study’s success.
Delve Health’s advanced algorithms, understands the best way to engage with a patient is by utilizing mobile apps, SMS, and automated phone calls, to nudge and notify a patient of upcoming visits, e-diaries entries due, and medication adherence questions.
PATIENT-CENTRIC APPROACH TO HELP YOU IMPROVE SUBJECT RETENTION IN CLINICAL TRIALS
With a focus on patient retention in clinical trials and patient compliance, our dedicated patient concierge team will call to check on patients, enter data on their behalf, and even ship items directly to their home.
Every trial is unique. While many sites are moving towards decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) and remote patient monitoring, sometimes sites still require an in-person visit—whether on-site or in the patient’s home. Delve Health meets the needs of any clinical study, which includes identifying the right level of in-home services if required. Using Clinical StudyPal, nurses and phlebotomists collect data at visits while ensuring compliance.
Giving patients a simple way of collecting data that doesn’t add to the “laundry list” of life’s never-ending “to-do” list is the way to improve patient retention strategies in clinical trials. The most patient-centric approach a study staff can take is to implement the use of technology—utilizing wearables, connected devices, and in-home sensors. Delve Health’s Clinical Study Pal platform can help identify and solve some of these obstacles.
For example, if a patient is not wearing their device, no data is shared with investigators. The Clinical Study Pal app has an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm, which allows the system to learn to engage the patient in different ways to identify the best options for compliance, based on the study participant’s behavior. The app also alerts investigators in real-time so that they can follow up with the study participants to encourage them to complete the tasks required. Our app allows for swift identification of an issue and a timely solution, which not only improves patient compliance but also the patient experience overall.
LET'S TALK
Frequently Asked Questions
Engaging patients in clinical trials involves several strategies:
- Utilizing Technology: Mobile apps, wearables, and connected devices can simplify data collection and ensure patients stay informed about their responsibilities.
- Personalized Communication: Regular check-ins through phone calls, SMS, and emails help maintain patient interest and commitment.
- Patient-Centric Services: Offering concierge services that assist with data entry, reminders, and home visits ensures that patients feel supported and valued throughout the trial.
The patient engagement includes:
- Initial Recruitment: Identifying and enrolling suitable candidates for the trial.
- Onboarding: Educating patients about the trial’s purpose, procedures, and expectations.
- Continuous Communication: Keeping patients informed and motivated through regular updates and check-ins.
- Support Services: Assisting with any challenges the patients face, whether technical or logistical.
- Feedback Loop: Collecting and acting on patient feedback to improve the engagement process.
Virtual trials patient engagement research focuses on understanding how to effectively involve patients in clinical trials and healthcare decisions. It examines:
- Patient Needs and Preferences: Identifying what motivates patients to participate and stay in trials.
- Barriers to Engagement: Understanding obstacles such as complex protocols, lack of information, or logistical issues.
- Effective Communication Methods: Exploring the best ways to communicate with patients and keep them engaged.
- Impact on Outcomes: Studying how patient engagement affects trial outcomes, including retention rates and data quality.
- Improved Retention Rates: Engaged patients are more likely to stay in the trial until completion.
- Enhanced Data Quality: Consistent engagement ensures that patients provide accurate and timely data.
- Better Patient Experience: Engaged patients feel valued and supported, which can improve their overall experience and compliance.
- Cost Efficiency: Higher retention and better data quality reduce the need for additional recruitment and minimize delays, saving time and resources.
- Informed Decision-Making: Patients who are engaged and well-informed can make better decisions regarding their participation, contributing to more reliable trial results.
A decentralized clinical trial (DCT) is a type of study that uses remote monitoring and digital tools to conduct research outside traditional clinical settings, often in participants’ homes.
They combine traditional in-person visits with remote monitoring and digital tools, providing flexibility and convenience for participants while maintaining rigorous data collection.
Patient retention strategies include personalized communication, regular reminders, supportive services, and the use of technology such as mobile apps and wearables to keep patients engaged and compliant.
