Patient, caregiver and clinician use of comparative effectiveness research findings in care decisions: results from a national study

AIM

To assess awareness, use and attitudes concerning comparative effectiveness research (CER) findings.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Online surveys of patients and caregivers managing rare (n = 560 patients, n = 609 caregivers) or chronic conditions (n = 762 patients, n = 776 caregivers), and practicing clinicians (n = 638).

RESULTS

Less than half of patients and caregivers reported exposure to any type of CER findings in the past 12 months. Of those, over half identify healthcare professionals as the information source, yet only 10% of clinicians indicated they were 'very familiar' with CER. Clinicians were concerned about the time required to find relevant evidence and the appropriateness of comparisons in available health research.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians, patients and caregivers indicate unmet need for incorporating CER research findings into clinical decision-making.

Health researcher views on comparative effectiveness research and research engagement

AIM

To understand researcher capability for and interest in patient-centered comparative effectiveness research (PC-CER), particularly related to engaging with patients/caregivers.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Web-based survey of 508 health researchers recruited via professional health research organizations.

RESULTS

Most respondents (94%) were familiar with CER and many (69%) reported having previously conducting some form of CER. Most respondents were familiar with (81%) and interested in (87%) partnering with patients and/or caregivers in research. Resources to assist in training, coordination of partners, guidance in apply for funding and improved infrastructure were commonly cited factors that would help researchers conduct PC-CER.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant opportunity for researchers to engage patients and caregivers as partners in CER. Researchers recognize the need for additional training and expertise to leverage those opportunities.

Patient, caregiver and clinician views on engagement in comparative effectiveness research

AIM

Describe patient, caregiver and clinician views toward engagement as partners in health research.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Online surveys of patients and caregivers managing rare (n = 560 patients, n = 609 caregivers) or chronic conditions (n = 762 patients, n = 776 caregivers) and practicing clinicians (n = 638).

RESULTS

Over half of respondents were unfamiliar with the concept of partnering with researchers but most expressed interest in working in a research partnership. Potential facilitators endorsed were ensuring research is meaningful, applying results in an understandable way, and sharing results. Lack of time is a potential barrier. Clinicians were most interested in helping researchers decide on intervention comparisons and identifying implications for clinical practice.

CONCLUSION

Patients, caregivers and clinicians are interested in research roles that emphasize usefulness and understandability of research.