1
|
Thomas SP, Novak I, Ritterband-Rosenbaum A, Lind K, Webb A, Gross P, McNamara M. The critical need to accelerate cerebral palsy research with consumer engagement, global networks, and adaptive designs. J Pediatr Rehabil Med 2024; 17:9-17. [PMID: 38552123 PMCID: PMC10977364 DOI: 10.3233/prm-240014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) varies globally, with higher rates and burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CP is a lifelong condition with no cure, presenting diverse challenges such as motor impairment, epilepsy, and mental health disorders. Research progress has been made but more is needed, especially given consumer demands for faster advancements and improvements in the scientific evidence base for interventions. This paper explores three strategies to accelerate CP research: consumer engagement, global clinical trial networks, and adaptive designs. Consumer engagement involving individuals with lived experience enhances research outcomes. Global clinical trial networks provide efficiency through larger and more diverse participant pools. Adaptive designs, unlike traditional randomized controlled trials, allow real-time modifications based on interim analyses, potentially answering complex questions more efficiently. The establishment of a CP Global Clinical Trials Network, integrating consumer engagement, global collaboration, and adaptive designs, marks a paradigm shift. The Network aims to address consumer-set research priorities. While challenges like ethical considerations and capacity building exist, the potential benefits for consumers, clinicians, researchers, and funding bodies are substantial. This paper underscores the urgency of transforming CP research methodologies for quicker translation of novel treatments into clinical practice to improve quality of life for those with CP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sruthi P. Thomas
- H. Ben Taub Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Departments of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Iona Novak
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Karin Lind
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annabel Webb
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paul Gross
- Cerebral Palsy Research Network, Greensville, SC, USA
| | - Maria McNamara
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - the CP Global Clinical Trials Network
- H. Ben Taub Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Departments of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Elsass Foundation, Charlottenlund, Denmark
- Cerebral Palsy Research Network, Greensville, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sweeny A, van den Berg L, Hocking J, Renaud J, Young S, Henshaw R, Foster K, Howell T. A Queensland research support network in emergency healthcare. J Health Organ Manag 2019; 33:93-109. [PMID: 30859915 DOI: 10.1108/jhom-02-2018-0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this paper is to describe the structure and impact of a Queensland Research Support Network (RSN) in emergency medicine (EM). DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH This paper presents a descriptive summary of EM networks, network evaluations and the structure and development of the Emergency Medicine Foundation's (EMF) RSN in Queensland, including an observational pre- and post-study of research metrics. FINDINGS In two years, the RSN supported 33 Queensland emergency departments (EDs), of which 14 developed research strategies. There was an increase in research active clinicians, from 23 in 2015 to 181 in 2017. Collaborator engagement increased from 9 in 2015 to 276 in 2017 as did the number of research presentations, from 6 in 2015 to 61 in 2017. EMF experienced a growth in new researchers, with new investigators submitting approximately 60 per cent of grant applications in 2016 and 2017. EMF also received new applications from a further three HHS (taking EMF-funded research activity from 8 to 11 HHS). RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS This paper describes changes in KPIs and research metrics, which the authors attribute to the establishment of the RSN. However, it is possible that attribution bias plays a role in the KPI improvements. SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS This network has actively boosted and expanded EM research capacity and capability in Queensland. It provides services, in the form of on-the-ground managers, to develop novice clinician-researchers, new projects and engage entire EDs. This model may be replicated nationwide but requires funding commitment. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The RSN improves front-line clinician research capacity and capability and increases research activity and collaborations with clear community outcomes. Collaborations were extended to community, primary health networks, non-government organisations, national and international researchers and academic institutions. Evaluating and measuring a network's benefits are difficult, but it is likely that evaluations will help networks obtain funding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Sweeny
- Emergency Department, Gold Coast University Hospital , Southport, Australia
| | | | - Julia Hocking
- Emergency Medicine Foundation Ltd, Brisbane, Australia.,Queensland University of Technology , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Julia Renaud
- Emergency Medicine Foundation Ltd, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sharleen Young
- West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, Ipswich, Australia
| | - Richard Henshaw
- Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service, Toowoomba, Australia
| | - Kelly Foster
- Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Australia
| | - Tegwen Howell
- Emergency Medicine Foundation Ltd, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Guthrie S, Bienkowska-Gibbs T, Manville C, Pollitt A, Kirtley A, Wooding S. The impact of the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme, 2003-13: a multimethod evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2016; 19:1-291. [PMID: 26307643 DOI: 10.3310/hta19670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) programme supports research tailored to the needs of NHS decision-makers, patients and clinicians. This study reviewed the impact of the programme, from 2003 to 2013, on health, clinical practice, health policy, the economy and academia. It also considered how HTA could maintain and increase its impact. METHODS Interviews (n = 20): senior stakeholders from academia, policy-making organisations and the HTA programme. Bibliometric analysis: citation analysis of publications arising from HTA programme-funded research. Researchfish survey: electronic survey of all HTA grant holders. Payback case studies (n = 12): in-depth case studies of HTA programme-funded research. RESULTS We make the following observations about the impact, and routes to impact, of the HTA programme: it has had an impact on patients, primarily through changes in guidelines, but also directly (e.g. changing clinical practice); it has had an impact on UK health policy, through providing high-quality scientific evidence - its close relationships with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the National Screening Committee (NSC) contributed to the observed impact on health policy, although in some instances other organisations may better facilitate impact; HTA research is used outside the UK by other HTA organisations and systematic reviewers - the programme has an impact on HTA practice internationally as a leader in HTA research methods and the funding of HTA research; the work of the programme is of high academic quality - the Health Technology Assessment journal ensures that the vast majority of HTA programme-funded research is published in full, while the HTA programme still encourages publication in other peer-reviewed journals; academics agree that the programme has played an important role in building and retaining HTA research capacity in the UK; the HTA programme has played a role in increasing the focus on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in medicine - it has also contributed to increasingly positive attitudes towards HTA research both within the research community and the NHS; and the HTA focuses resources on research that is of value to patients and the UK NHS, which would not otherwise be funded (e.g. where there is no commercial incentive to undertake research). The programme should consider the following to maintain and increase its impact: providing targeted support for dissemination, focusing resources when important results are unlikely to be implemented by other stakeholders, particularly when findings challenge vested interests; maintaining close relationships with NICE and the NSC, but also considering other potential users of HTA research; maintaining flexibility and good relationships with researchers, giving particular consideration to the Technology Assessment Report (TAR) programme and the potential for learning between TAR centres; maintaining the academic quality of the work and the focus on NHS need; considering funding research on the short-term costs of the implementation of new health technologies; improving the monitoring and evaluation of whether or not patient and public involvement influences research; improve the transparency of the priority-setting process; and continuing to monitor the impact and value of the programme to inform its future scientific and administrative development.
Collapse
|
4
|
Bedson E, Bell D, Carr D, Carter B, Hughes D, Jorgensen A, Lewis H, Lloyd K, McCaddon A, Moat S, Pink J, Pirmohamed M, Roberts S, Russell I, Sylvestre Y, Tranter R, Whitaker R, Wilkinson C, Williams N. Folate Augmentation of Treatment--Evaluation for Depression (FolATED): randomised trial and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2015; 18:vii-viii, 1-159. [PMID: 25052890 DOI: 10.3310/hta18480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folate deficiency is associated with depression. Despite the biological plausibility of a causal link, the evidence that adding folate enhances antidepressant treatment is weak. OBJECTIVES (1) Estimate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of folic acid as adjunct to antidepressant medication (ADM). (2) Explore whether baseline folate and homocysteine predict response to treatment. (3) Investigate whether response to treatment depends on genetic polymorphisms related to folate metabolism. DESIGN FolATED (Folate Augmentation of Treatment - Evaluation for Depression) was a double-blind and placebo-controlled, but otherwise pragmatic, randomised trial including cost-utility analysis. To yield 80% power of detecting standardised difference on the Beck Depression Inventory version 2 (BDI-II) of 0.3 between groups (a 'small' effect), FolATED trialists sought to analyse 358 participants. To allow for an estimated loss of 21% of participants over three time points, we planned to randomise 453. SETTINGS Clinical - Three centres in Wales - North East Wales, North West Wales and Swansea. Trial management - North Wales Organisation for Randomised Trials in Health in Bangor University. Biochemical analysis - University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff. Genetic analysis - University of Liverpool. PARTICIPANTS Four hundred and seventy-five adult patients presenting to primary or secondary care with confirmed moderate to severe depression for which they were taking or about to start ADM, and able to consent and complete assessments, but not (1) folate deficient, vitamin B12 deficient, or taking folic acid or anticonvulsants; (2) misusing drugs or alcohol, or suffering from psychosis, bipolar disorder, malignancy or other unstable or terminal illness; (3) (planning to become) pregnant; or (4) participating in other clinical research. INTERVENTIONS Once a day for 12 weeks experimental participants added 5 mg of folic acid to their ADM, and control participants added an indistinguishable placebo. All participants followed pragmatic management plans initiated by a trial psychiatrist and maintained by their general medical practitioners. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Assessed at baseline, and 4, 12 and 25 weeks thereafter, and analysed by 'area under curve' (main); by analysis of covariance at each time point (secondary); and by multi-level repeated measures (sensitivity analysis): Mental health - BDI-II (primary), Clinical Global Impression (CGI), Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), UKU side effects scale, and Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) suicidality subscale; General health - UK 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), European Quality of Life scale - 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D); Biochemistry - serum folate, B12, homocysteine; Adherence - Morisky Questionnaire; Economics - resource use. RESULTS Folic acid did not significantly improve any of these measures. For example it gained a mean of just 2.9 quality-adjusted life-days [95% confidence interval (CI) from -12.7 to 7.0 days] and saved a mean of just £48 (95% CI from -£292 to £389). In contrast it significantly reduced mental health scores on the SF-12 by 3.0% (95% CI from -5.2% to -0.8%). CONCLUSIONS The FolATED trial generated no evidence that folic acid was clinically effective or cost-effective in augmenting ADM. This negative finding is consistent with improving understanding of the one-carbon folate pathway suggesting that methylfolate is a better candidate for augmenting ADM. Hence the findings of FolATED undermine treatment guidelines that advocate folic acid for treating depression, and suggest future trials of methylfolate to augment ADM. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN37558856. FUNDING This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 18, No. 48. See the HTA programme website for further project information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Bedson
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Diana Bell
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Betsi Cadwalladr University Health Board, Bangor, UK
| | - Daniel Carr
- Wolfson Centre for Personalised Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ben Carter
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dyfrig Hughes
- Centre for Economics and Policy in Health, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Andrea Jorgensen
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Helen Lewis
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Keith Lloyd
- College of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Andrew McCaddon
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Stuart Moat
- Medical Biochemistry & Immunology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Joshua Pink
- Centre for Economics and Policy in Health, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Munir Pirmohamed
- Wolfson Centre for Personalised Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Seren Roberts
- Centre for Mental Health & Society, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Ian Russell
- College of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | | | - Richard Tranter
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, NZ
| | - Rhiannon Whitaker
- North Wales Organisation for Randomised Trials in Health, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Clare Wilkinson
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Nefyn Williams
- North Wales Centre for Primary Care Research, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Winzer BM, Paratz JD, Whitehead JP, Whiteman DC, Reeves MM. The feasibility of an exercise intervention in males at risk of oesophageal adenocarcinoma: a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0117922. [PMID: 25706622 PMCID: PMC4338269 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0117922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the feasibility and safety of a 24-week exercise intervention, compared to control, in males with Barrett’s oesophagus, and to estimate the effect of the intervention, compared to control, on risk factors associated with oesophageal adenocarcinoma development. Methods A randomized controlled trial of an exercise intervention (60 minutes moderate-intensity aerobic and resistance exercise five days/week over 24 weeks; one supervised and four unsupervised sessions) versus attention control (45 minutes stretching five days/week over 24 weeks; one supervised and four unsupervised sessions) in inactive, overweight/obese (25.0–34.9 kg/m2) males with Barrett’s oesophagus, aged 18–70 years. Primary outcomes were obesity-associated hormones relevant to oesophageal adenocarcinoma risk (circulating concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, C-reactive protein, and insulin resistance [HOMA]). Secondary outcomes included waist circumference, body composition, fitness, strength and gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms. Outcomes were measured at baseline and 24-weeks. Intervention effects were analysed using generalised linear models, adjusting for baseline value. Results Recruitment was difficult in this population with a total of 33 participants recruited (target sample size: n = 80); 97% retention at 24-weeks. Adherence to the exercise protocol was moderate. No serious adverse events were reported. A statistically significant intervention effect (exercise minus control) was observed for waist circumference (-4.5 [95% CI -7.5, -1.4] cm; p < 0.01). Effects on primary outcomes were not statistically significant. Conclusion This small, exploratory trial provides important information to inform future trial development including recruitment rates and estimates of effect sizes on outcomes related to oesophageal adenocarcinoma risk. Future trials should investigate a combined dietary and exercise intervention to achieve greater weight loss in this population and relax inclusion criteria to maximize recruitment. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12609000401257
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brooke M. Winzer
- Burns, Trauma and Critical Care Research Centre, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jennifer D. Paratz
- Burns, Trauma and Critical Care Research Centre, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jonathan P. Whitehead
- Metabolic Medicine Group, Mater Research Institute University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - David C. Whiteman
- Cancer Control Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Marina M. Reeves
- Cancer Prevention Research Centre, School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Obese subjects involvement in a population-based survey: the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) to avoid stigmatization. Qual Life Res 2014; 24:1131-5. [PMID: 25194575 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-014-0800-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological and health promotion studies in obese subjects are hampered by the difficulty of obtaining a representative sample from the community. The enrollment process can be at high risk of stigmatization. The purpose of this study is to describe an original information and communication technologies (ICT) strategy to get around these ethical and methodological difficulties. METHODS A multimedia campaign of communication was organized on the topic of overweight and quality of life (QoL). A specific website was developed to collect via a questionnaire QoL data as well as information related to patient's needs and health perception from participants. To promote the website, multiple information supports were largely diffused. Primary care professionals were solicited to enhance the enrollment. The campaign started with a press conference covered by the main television channels. RESULTS The ICT-based approach allowed the participation of 4,155 subjects homogeneously distributed with respect to body mass index, age, gender and socioeconomic level. A high percentage of subjects fully completed the web-based questionnaire. The press conference allowed reaching a quarter of the total sample within 5 days. CONCLUSIONS Overweight remains a major public health problem. This survey showed that a holistic approach supported by ICT is a promising way to recruit obese subjects without stigmatizing the disorder.
Collapse
|
7
|
Korppi M, Lepola P, Vettenranta K, Pakkala S, Hoppu K. Limited impact of EU paediatric regulation on Finnish clinical trials highlights need for Nordic collaboration. Acta Paediatr 2013; 102:1035-40. [PMID: 23889459 DOI: 10.1111/apa.12372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The Finnish Investigators Network for Paediatric Medicines (FINPEDMED) was established in 2007, to meet the expected increase in paediatric clinical trials following the new EU Paediatric Regulation. Between 2007 and 2012, FINPEDMED received 91 trial requests, 18 trials were started, and in 24 cases, Finnish investigators were not selected by sponsors. CONCLUSION This experience from Finland highlights the need for Nordic collaboration to increase expertise, recruitment base and attractiveness for sponsors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matti Korppi
- Tampere Center for Child Health Research; Tampere University and University Hospital; Tampere; Finland
| | - Pirkko Lepola
- Finnish Investigators Network for Pediatric Medicines; Tampere Center for Child Health Research; Clinical Research Institute Helsinki University Central Hospital Ltd. c/o University of Tampere; Tampere; Finland
| | - Kim Vettenranta
- Hospital for Children and Adolescents; Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa (HUS); Helsinki; Finland
| | - Seppo Pakkala
- Clinical Research Institute Helsinki University Central Hospital Ltd.; Helsinki; Finland
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Establishing a clinical trials network in nephrology: experience of the Australasian Kidney Trials Network. Kidney Int 2013; 85:23-30. [PMID: 24088955 PMCID: PMC3898483 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2013.391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is a major public health problem globally. Despite this, there are fewer high-quality, high-impact clinical trials in nephrology than other internal medicine specialties, which has led to large gaps in evidence. To address this deficiency, the Australasian Kidney Trials Network, a Collaborative Research Group, was formed in 2005. Since then, the Network has provided infrastructure and expertise to conduct patient-focused high-quality, investigator-initiated clinical trials in nephrology. The Network has not only been successful in engaging the nephrology community in Australia and New Zealand but also in forming collaborations with leading researchers from other countries. This article describes the establishment, development, and functions of the Network. The article also discusses the current and future funding strategies to ensure uninterrupted conduct of much needed clinical trials in nephrology to improve the outcomes of patients affected by kidney diseases with cost-effective interventions.
Collapse
|
9
|
Shneerson C, Windle R, Cox K. Innovating information-delivery for potential clinical trials participants. What do patients want from multi-media resources? PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2013; 90:111-7. [PMID: 22819269 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2012.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To discover whether the provision of clinical trials information via a multi-media platform could better meet the needs, preferences and practices of potential cancer trial participants. METHODS A mixed qualitative and quantitative questionnaire was delivered to 72 participants from cancer support groups to elicit views on the provision and design features of multimedia resources in delivering clinical trials information. RESULTS Perceived lack of information is an expressed barrier to clinical trials participation. Multimedia resources were viewed positively as a way to address this barrier by most potential clinical trials participants; in particular by helping to align information to individual needs, promote active engagement with information, and by allowing more control of the learning experience. Whilst text remained the most valued attribute of any resource, other highly rated attributes included the resource being simple to use, easily accessible, having a clear focus, incorporating examples and visual aids, and being interactive. Provision of support for the learning resource was also rated highly. CONCLUSION As in other areas, such as education, multimedia resources may enhance the delivery and acceptance of information regarding clinical trials. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Better alignment of information may have a positive impact on recruitment and retention into clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Shneerson
- University of Nottingham, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Physiotherapy, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Saag KG, Mohr PE, Esmail L, Mudano AS, Wright N, Beukelman T, Curtis JR, Cutter G, Delzell E, Gary LC, Harrington TM, Karkare S, Kilgore ML, Lewis CE, Moloney R, Oliveira A, Singh JA, Warriner A, Zhang J, Berger M, Cummings SR, Pace W, Solomon DH, Wallace R, Tunis SR. Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of pragmatic clinical trials in older adults in the United States. Contemp Clin Trials 2012; 33:1211-6. [PMID: 22796098 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2012.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Revised: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) seek to improve the generalizability and increase the statistical power of traditional explanatory trials. They are a major tenet of comparative effectiveness research. While a powerful study design, PCTs have been limited by high cost, modest efficiency, and limited ability to fill relevant evidence gaps. Based on an American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) supported meeting of national stakeholders, we propose several innovations and future research that could improve the efficiency and effectiveness of such studies focused in the U.S. Innovations discussed include optimizing the use of community based practices through partnership with Practice Based Research Networks (PBRNs), using information technology to simplify PCT subject recruitment, consent and randomization processes, and utilizing linkages to large administrative databases, such as Medicare, as a mechanism to capture outcomes and other important PCT variables with lower subject and research team burden. Testing and adaptation of such innovations to PCT are anticipated to improve the public health value of these increasingly important studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth G Saag
- Center for Education and Research on Therapeutics (CERTs), Center for Outcomes Effectiveness Research and Education (COERE), and Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|