Elevating Patient Centricity In Clinical Trials: Strategies For Improving Study Engagement And Support

By Erin Finot, Vice President, Immuno-Oncology and Cell & Gene Therapy, Katie Shaw, Global Head, Strategy and Product Development, Patient & Site Centric Solutions, and Dawn Muscolino, Director, Strategic Site Solutions

How can the integration of patient perspectives throughout the clinical trial process enhance engagement and outcomes? Since the FDA's 2012 patient-focused drug development initiative, the industry has made significant progress in addressing patient needs. However, challenges persist, including extended enrollment periods and shifting geographic focuses in clinical research.

To tackle these issues, IQVIA Biotech proposes a comprehensive lifecycle approach that incorporates patient input at every stage, from protocol design and study planning to site selection and community outreach. This strategy involves setting diversity enrollment goals, validating them with real-world data, and tailoring engagement practices to ensure inclusivity and retention. By strategically selecting sites aligned with diversity objectives and providing cultural competency training for site staff, the approach aims to create a patient-focused culture in clinical trials.

Implementing this patient-centric model not only improves the trial experience for participants but also enhances the quality and applicability of research outcomes. By embedding the patient voice before, during, and after trials, the industry can foster more effective and inclusive clinical research practices.