The Importance Of Site Relations In The Implementation Of Mobile Research Visits

Mobile research nursing and other elements of decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) are on the rise. GlobalData reports that in 2021, there were 1,291 DCTs. By 2027, the global market size for DCTs is projected to reach $16.29 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.8% from $6.11 billion in 2020.

While it would seem this style of conducting clinical trials is the new normal, a recent survey conducted by ACRP hints that DCTs are not yet commonplace. According to the results of the survey, 47% of sites reported using DCT components/services in only 1-25% of their clinical trials, while 41% of sites stated that none of their trials made use of such components. Merely 12% of sites reported that over a quarter of their clinical trials incorporated DCT components/services.

One element of the DCT that is working to speed up the adoption of this trial design is utilizing nurses for home or mobile visits for study participants. When used, mobile nurses have shown a significant increase in trial participant diversity and improve recruitment and retention. However, these advantages can only be fully realized if sites and other stakeholders feel comfortable utilizing them. Although the decision to incorporate home nursing visits into study protocols typically rests with the sponsor, it is crucial for the study design to consider the perspectives of key site stakeholders, such as Clinical Research Coordinators and Principal Investigators (PIs).