By Zuleha Akhtar
I had the pleasure of participating in the Patients as Partners event this month, where patient advocates came together to discuss ways of enhancing the patient journey within clinical trials. The event provided a platform for patients themselves to voice their needs and concerns directly to decision-makers. It was a refreshing approach that emphasized the importance of centering patient perspectives in discussions around improving recruitment, retention, and overall trial experiences.
There’s a lot that I was able to take away from this event, but here are some of the key discussions that stood out to me:
- The simplification of processes in clinical trials isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.
What may seem like a simplification to one person could be a burden to another. For instance, transitioning to digital tools like iPads for consent forms might be convenient for those who struggle with writing or prefer digital methods. However, it could pose challenges for those who struggle with technology or for those with physical limitations which results in an increased burden for their caregivers. Therefore, it’s crucial to remain open-minded and considerate of various needs when designing trial processes. Patients should have a say in what simplification means to them, taking into account different disabilities, demographics, and preferences.
Simplifying processes to be inclusive doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s about getting back to basics and ensuring clarity from the start. Simplified processes can include offering flexibility in how forms are filled out, checkups are conducted, or vital signs are measured. For example, allowing patients to complete forms from their home instead of travelling to a site reduces the burden of travel and is adaptable for all patients. By examining the entire patient journey and providing multiple options that accommodate different lifestyles and caregiver needs, we can create more inclusive and successful trials.
- Recognizing the pivotal role of caregivers and the broader support network surrounding patients.
Whether these individuals are directly assisting with practicalities or providing emotional support, their contribution to clinical trials cannot be overstated. It’s imperative to involve them in discussions and allow them a voice throughout the process. By engaging patients and their support networks from the outset and continuously incorporating their perspectives, we streamline procedures, saving valuable time and resources for all stakeholders. It’s essential to acknowledge that the patient’s family, friends, and partners are impacted by the trial, and their insights are invaluable. Simplifying their involvement and ensuring clear communication about procedures can help mitigate any negative associations with the trial and reduce potential sources of tension in patients’ lives.
- Empowering patients to express their own perspectives rather than confining them within predetermined boundaries.
Patient advocate Sarah Zenner-Dolan shared how she felt disconnected from a trial due to limitations on her participation and voice. The study’s design was based around those who were typically diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which meant Sarah couldn’t fully share her experiences. For example, the questionnaire focused on issues that demographics typically associated with the disease would face, leaving Sarah unable to relate. This narrow focus limited the trial’s scope and hindered the exploration of diverse perspectives. Sarah’s disconnection from the trial was detrimental to all involved. By allowing patients to articulate their own experiences, we enrich discussions and improve the quality of data from trials. It’s vital that we prioritize patient voices rather than confining them to our preconceptions, as this approach fosters greater understanding and enhances the effectiveness of research on the topic.
The Patients as Partners event successfully highlighted the importance of centering clinical trials around the needs and experiences of patients. Throughout discussions surrounding the simplification of processes, acknowledging the crucial role of caregivers and amplifying patient voices, a consistent emphasis emerges on the fundamental significance of inclusivity, transparency, and adaptability within the trial framework.
By actively involving patients, caregivers, and stakeholders from inception to implementation, trials can be finely tuned to accommodate diverse perspectives and circumstances, enhancing the validity and impact of research outcomes. Embracing the authentic voices and perspectives of patients not only fortifies the integrity of clinical research but also cultivates a culture of trust and collaboration which is key for a successful trial!