Pharmacist and patient perspectives on recruitment strategies for randomized controlled trials: a qualitative analysis

Jane M Fletcher, Terry Saunders-Smith, Braden J Manns, Ross Tsuyuki, Brenda R Hemmelgarn, Marcello Tonelli, David J T Campbell, Jane M Fletcher, Terry Saunders-Smith, Braden J Manns, Ross Tsuyuki, Brenda R Hemmelgarn, Marcello Tonelli, David J T Campbell

Abstract

Background: Although recruitment is a major challenge for most randomized controlled trials, few report on the difficulties of recruitment, or how it might be enhanced. The objective of our study was to qualitatively explore the experiences of both patients and pharmacists related to recruitment for ACCESS, a large trial involving low-income seniors, given that two of our most successful recruitment strategies were direct patient recruitment materials and use of community pharmacists.

Methods: Using qualitative descriptive methods, we collected data from pharmacists and study participants. Pharmacists were asked about their impressions of the study, as well as challenges they faced and methods they used to recruit potential participants. Focus groups with trial participants centered on the patient recruitment materials. Interviews and focus groups were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Pharmacists noted that their first impressions of the study were positive as they described being enticed to help the study team by the potential benefit of copayment elimination for their patients and the low time commitment. Pharmacists noted they were more likely to recruit if they were well informed on the study, as they could answer their patients' questions. Participants noted that their primary motivations for participating were the tangible benefits of free medications and the intrinsic value of participating in research.

Conclusions: We noted that recruitment through pharmacies was an effective method as most patients have trusting relationships with their pharmacist. To optimize recruitment through pharmacies, study procedures should be straightforward, and pharmacists need to be equipped with good knowledge of the study. When promoting a study to potential participants, messaging should ensure the individuals are aware of the tangible benefits of participation while still presenting a full overview of the trial.

Trial registration: Trial Registration Number: NCT02579655 - initially registered Oct 19, 2015.

Keywords: Chronic disease; Education; Medication; Participant focus group; Pharmacist; Qualitative; Randomized controlled trials; Recruitment; Senior.

Conflict of interest statement

The only disclosure is that Dr. Tsuyuki has received investigator-initiated grants from Merck Canada, AstraZeneca Canada, and Sanofi Canada. He has given paid presentations for Merck Canada and Sanofi Canada. These grants and presentations are unrelated to the current manuscript. This manuscript has not been submitted for publication in any other journal.

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Source: PubMed

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