Could Gamification Improve Clinical Trials?

Gamification is the application of game design principles and techniques to non-game contexts, with the intention of creating value for the players and other stakeholders.

In the pharmaceutical industry, companies have begun to use gamification to improve relationships with patients by using games to encourage disease management. Sanofi launched an app for children with Type 1 diabetes that educates them on the disease, as well as another app called “Monster Manor”, which encourages players to regularly test and record their blood glucose levels. In addition, Boehringer Ingleheim, in collaboration with Eli Lilly, launched an app called “Complications Combat” to educate patients on behaviors that can exacerbate their conditions. Gamification of many aspects of our culture is well under way, and some researchers are even beginning to consider the integration of gamification principles into clinical trials.