Patient Engagement in Clinical Trials and The Importance of Retention
I can’t stress enough the importance of patient engagement in clinical trials. When patients actively participate in their clinical journey, they not only enhance the quality of the research but also ensure better retention rates. In this article, I will delve into the various aspects of patient engagement. Looking beyond alerts and notifications. And explain how behavioral science can significantly improve patient involvement through identity lock, motivations, and rewards.
To be sure, retention is the backbone of any successful clinical trial. Inadequate retention rates lead to delays, increased costs, and inaccurate results, potentially jeopardizing the entire research project. Therefore, by investing in patient engagement, we pave the way for more accurate and efficient clinical trials. Ultimately benefiting patients and society as a whole.
Engaging Patients Beyond Alerts and Notifications
While alerts and notifications play a role in patient engagement, true engagement goes beyond simple reminders. It requires a deep understanding of human behavior and communication. This is where behavioral science steps in, offering an invaluable perspective on improving patient engagement.
Identity Lock: Building Commitment for Continued Participation
One powerful concept from behavioral science is identity lock. In the context of clinical trials, identity lock refers to patients associating their participation in the trial with their self-image. When patients view their involvement as a reflection of their values, beliefs, or identity, they are more likely to stay committed to the trial. A well-designed patient engagement strategy can help establish this identity lock, encouraging patients to stay involved and take ownership of their role in the trial.
Understanding and Harnessing Motivations
Motivation is another crucial element in driving patient engagement. By understanding the different factors that motivate individuals, we can create personalized engagement strategies to address their unique needs. For instance, some patients may be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to scientific progress, while others may be driven by the potential for personal health benefits. By tapping into these motivations, we can foster stronger connections between patients and clinical trials, leading to higher retention rates.
Rewards: Encouraging and Reinforcing Engagement
Rewards also play a significant role in patient engagement. When patients feel appreciated and acknowledged for their efforts, they are more likely to remain engaged in the clinical trial. Incentives can range from financial rewards to recognition and expressions of gratitude. By incorporating rewards into patient engagement strategies, we can create a positive feedback loop that reinforces commitment and satisfaction.
The Future of Patient Engagement
To be sure, patient engagement is critical to the success of clinical trials. We can achieve higher retention rates and approve the overall quality of clinical research in two steps. First, by looking beyond alerts and notifications for patient engagement. Second, by integrating behavioral science principles such as identity lock, motivations, and rewards. I believe it’s our responsibility to explore these avenues and develop innovative strategies that prioritize the well-being and involvement of patients in the clinical trial process.
And Datacubed Health can help. We are the only eCOA solution provider offering built-in patient engagement as standard. All of our solutions are infused with behavioral science principles designed to improve outcomes. Lean on our decades of eCOA and behavioral science expertise to improve the clinical trial experience for all. Request a personalized demo today and get started on a better path forward, or check out this brief demo video to see how we do it! Or if you want to fast-forward, request a customized demo today.