Clinical Trial Participant Payments: Navigating Global Complexity And Modern Studies

By Shaun Williams, Senior Director, Clinical Trial Payments Solutions, IQVIA Technologies

Managing participant payments in clinical trials has become more intricate as trials expand globally and incorporate new modalities, study models, and evolving regulatory requirements. Ensuring participants are compensated fairly and on time is crucial for maintaining recruitment and retention rates, as compensation is a key motivator for many patients. However, clinical trial sponsors face significant challenges in navigating diverse regulations, banking infrastructures, and data privacy laws, which vary widely between countries.

The most common methods of managing participant payments often place an undue burden on trial sites, either by directly involving them in the process or by relying on third-party platforms that still require significant administrative oversight from investigators. This can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and even participant dissatisfaction, especially when payment methods are not tailored to local preferences or regulatory requirements.

For sponsors conducting trials in emerging markets like China, Brazil, or Bulgaria, additional hurdles such as complex approval processes, cybersecurity concerns, and payment integration challenges further complicate the logistics of participant compensation. Overcoming these issues requires a global solution that integrates local expertise, navigates country-specific regulations, and provides flexible payment methods suited to the needs of both participants and investigators. A truly global participant payment system can streamline trial operations, enhance participant satisfaction, and ensure compliance, ultimately contributing to more successful clinical trial outcomes.