The Power Of Patient Kindness: How Compassion In Clinical Trials Drives Better Outcomes

By Nora DeSimone, Director of Patient Kindness, Mural Health

Compassionate, patient-centered care plays a pivotal role in enhancing the clinical trial experience, particularly within oncology research. Despite this participants in oncology trials often receive less financial support compared to those in other trials, leading to feelings of anger and frustration. In response, Mural Health launched the Patient Kindness initiative in early 2024, designed to foster empathy and personalized support for trial participants.

By engaging in one-on-one conversations, the initiative aims to understand and address the unique needs of participants, providing tailored acts of kindness and logistical assistance. By advocating for fair reimbursement practices, Mural Health seeks to transform the participant experience, encouraging sponsors and trial sites to recognize participants as individuals deserving of respect and support. The initiative also invites broader engagement through a survey to identify financial challenges faced by participants, reinforcing the call for compassion as a fundamental component of clinical research. Overall, the Patient Kindness initiative exemplifies how empathy can lead to more equitable and effective clinical trials.