The Key to Re-Recruiting Patients for Future Trials: Patient Engagement
Updated: Feb 15
Clinical research recruitment is a critical aspect of advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. Without a diverse and engaged patient population, research studies can't succeed. But while much attention is given to the recruitment phase of clinical research, less is often said about what comes after. Specifically, how do you keep patients engaged and interested in participating in future trials?
The answer lies in patient engagement. Engaged patients are more likely to participate in future trials and to recommend research studies to their friends and family. By building strong, lasting relationships with patients, you not only improve the chances of success for your current study, but you also set the stage for success in future trials.
The Key to Recruitment is Not Recruitment
It may sound counterintuitive, but the key to successful clinical research recruitment is not actually recruitment. Instead, it's about building trust and establishing a meaningful connection with patients. When patients feel heard, valued, and supported throughout the trial process, they are more likely to engage with your study and to view it as a positive experience. This positive experience, in turn, increases the likelihood that they will be interested in participating in future trials.
So how can you build and maintain patient engagement? Here are some tips:
Keep Communication Channels Open - Regular communication with patients is critical to maintaining engagement. Use multiple channels to stay in touch, including email, text messaging, phone calls, and social media.
Offer Support and Resources - Patients may have questions or concerns throughout the trial process. Be sure to provide them with clear information and resources to help them navigate the study.
Show Appreciation - Patients are volunteering their time and effort to participate in your study. Show your appreciation with regular thank-you messages and small tokens of gratitude.
Follow Up After the Study - After the trial ends, don't let the relationship with patients end. Follow up with them to check on their health and well-being, and to keep them informed about future research studies.
By implementing these strategies and more, you can create a culture of engagement and trust that keeps patients coming back for future studies. It's not about recruiting patients, but rather about building relationships that last.
Conclusion
Clinical research recruitment is a critical component of advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. But just as important is keeping patients engaged and interested in future studies. By prioritizing patient engagement and focusing on building relationships that last, you can create a culture of trust and enthusiasm that benefits both patients and researchers alike.