Immunology trials often place a sustained burden on participants. Long study durations, frequent assessments, and the clinical complexities of immune-mediated conditions can significantly affect daily functioning, energy, and mobility. For many patients, repeated travel to research sites becomes a major barrier – one that can delay recruitment, impact retention, and shape the overall study experience.
To address these challenges in a UK-based Phase 3 immunology trial, a biotechnology Sponsor partnered with MRN to integrate Home Trial Support (HTS) as part of their patient-centric trial delivery model. The goal was clear: reduce travel burden, support long-term participation, and help keep the study on schedule.
HTS enabled trained healthcare professionals to complete protocol-defined visits – including blood sampling and clinical assessments — in the participant’s home, under full Principal Investigator oversight. This approach minimized disruption to daily life while maintaining data integrity, compliance, and continuity of care.
Impact on Recruitment and Retention
The use of HTS had a measurable effect on trial performance:
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On-time recruitment: Enrollment was completed as planned within the 12-month target period, supporting the Sponsor’s projected timelines.
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Exceptional retention:
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100% retention was achieved during the first 12 months of the study.
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82% retention was maintained during the open-label extension phase, demonstrating sustained patient engagement beyond the primary study period.
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High-volume delivery: A total of 1,349 HTS visits were conducted across 75 patients, reflecting the scalability and operational robustness of the approach.
Why HTS Works in Immunology Studies
For participants managing chronic immune-mediated conditions, the ability to remain in familiar surroundings and avoid repeated travel plays a meaningful role in maintaining long-term engagement. HTS supports:
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Reduced physical and logistical burden
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Improved accessibility for patients with mobility or fatigue challenges
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Continuity of participation during long-duration studies
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Enhanced patient experience without compromising protocol adherence or data quality
A Patient-Centric Model with Measurable Benefits
This case study demonstrates the value of Home Trial Support in complex immunology research. By bringing components of the trial directly to patients, the Sponsor strengthened both operational performance and participant experience — contributing to on-time recruitment, robust retention, and a smoother transition into the extension phase.
As immunology studies continue to grow in complexity and duration, patient-centered delivery models like HTS offer a practical, scalable solution for improving accessibility and supporting long-term engagement.
Read the full case study below.