Going Global With eConsent

By Scott Askin, Digital Solutions Director, Novartis

The journey toward change

It was early in 2014 when some in Novartis first thought they may need to make a big change. They were considering replacing one of their most basic trial processes, one they had used for over 20 years, with something entirely new.

The reason was simple. Like many other pharmaceutical companies, Novartis had become increasingly frustrated with the paper consent form process and the undue burden it placed on patients. Rather than intimidating and confusing potential trial participants, Novartis sought a patient-friendly and intuitive way to help patients understand the material so they could make an informed enrollment decision. They soon found their answer in eConsent. eConsent provided Novartis a way to easily introduce trials and consent by offering patients a familiar device, an intuitive interface and a patient-friendly presentation. Patients reported that this helped them understand the material, guide them through the process, and make an informed decision. Novartis believed they had what they needed for change. The question was, what was the best way to make it happen?