Patient Centricity in Clinical Trials: Putting Patients First

The success of any clinical trial relies heavily on patient participation. In recent years we have seen a growing recognition for adopting a patient centric approach and putting the needs and well-being of patients first. Logistics, often seen as a behind-the-scenes operation, plays a key part in achieving this goal.

In this article we will explore how logistics plays a crucial role in achieving patient centricity in clinical trials helping to ease the burden on patients and ensure a smooth overall experience.

Why adopt a patient centric approach?

Whilst essential, the focus on the actual clinical research itself, can sometimes dominate, and prioritising patients needs can often be an afterthought. Overlooking the well-being and needs of participants can lead to high drop-out rates which, in turn, can delay the trial or jeopardise the integrity of the data.

By adopting a flexible, patient centric approach, making a patient feel valued, alleviating any concerns and making participation as easy and stress-free as possible, can not only help boost recruitment levels but can also ensure long-term engagement and patient retention. A win for all parties. This can help expedite trials and deliver the successful completion of valuable research and getting life-saving medicine into the hands of those who need it as swiftly as possible.

How can logistics help deliver the perfect patient experience?

While the potential benefits of participating in a clinical trial can be significant, the day-to-day realities of taking part, can often raise logistical questions for patients. They may have concerns regarding transportation, access to medication, costs and how secure their personal data will be. These logistical challenges may act as a deterrent for those considering enrolment.

A flexible, patient-centric approach can help alleviate those concerns.

Sample Collection and Transportation

For some patients the ability to travel isn’t an option. However, the door-to-door delivery of sample kits or essential medicines that are securely packaged and regulated at the correct temperature can enable patient participation. It is essential to guarantee the efficacy of medicines and sample safety. This will prevent unwanted waste and ensure the accuracy of trial results. Deliveries which can be tracked via mobile or online portals can also provide reassurances to CROs and CDMOs who can monitor project status in real-time.

Patient Travel and Accommodation

A long journey or an early appointment may mean a patient dropping out of a trial or indeed, participating in the first place. To know that someone can take care of transport arrangements or book a nearby hotel room the night before a trial can take away any unnecessary stress or hassle factors. Delivering a flexible service to suit a patient, whilst keeping a careful eye on costs will support patient recruitment and retention.

Nutritional Meals for a Tailored Diet

A medically tailored diet may be a requirement for those patients battling with diabetes, heart disease or other chronic illness. The delivery of specifically, portioned meals in hygienic boxes, at the desired temperature can support a patient’s diet ensuring they are consuming the correct food ingredients and quantity as part of their trial. To have this organised on their behalf, will bring peace of mind knowing this has been carefully manged on their behalf.

Expanded Access Programs

For some patients with a serious or immediate, life-threatening condition, an expanded access program can literally be a lifeline. The program allows doctors to request access to investigational drugs for those patients with severe illness. Whilst the drugs may not yet have had regulatory approval, they may offer potential benefits, particularly when other options are limited. Supporting the patient at this moment in time with a tailor-made solution and careful provision of non-registered drugs can bring a glimmer of hope.

Respecting Language and Culture

The ability to communicate with patients from diverse backgrounds is essential to overcome any language barriers. For multi-national trials, it is important that patients receive both verbal and written communication in their own language so that they can clearly understand the process and requirements. Similarly, adopting procedures and providing a service that respect a patient’s cultural sensitivities and preferences will foster trust, build a strong patient-provider relationship, and ensure informed consent within the trial.

Delivering Patient Care from Oximio

At Oximio, we have been providing flexible, patient centric services, supporting clinical trials across the globe for 20 years. Our highly experienced staff, supported further by an extensive partner depot network, have expert local knowledge across multiple countries. This means that we can communicate with patients in their own language and pride ourselves on delivering a tailored solution to meet individual patient requirements.

Find our more about our patient focused services or contact us today and find out how can support your clinical trial.