Drive Awareness

Opportunity

Knowledge of clinical trials as a treatment option may be limited or lacking among patients, especially underrepresented populations.  The use of multiple channels, such as community partners, social media, or physicians, to raise awareness about clinical trials allows the flow of information on this topic to patients who may not otherwise be aware of or consider clinical trial participation in order to support improved recruitment.

Considerations to Help Action the Opportunity

• Develop a cohesive strategy for use of information channels to increase awareness and education around clinical research and clinical trial opportunities 
• Co-create tools and informational assets (resources) for the channels with the intended users (e.g., patients, care partners, healthcare providers). Potential examples include materials to support clinical trial conversations, digital media in systems already used by patients (e.g., medical record systems, social media, etc.), materials / forums for use in community settings, etc.  
• Partner with trusted sources of information for the patient, such as healthcare providers, community groups, and patient organizations, etc. to support provision of information and conversations with patients that are relevant and seek feedback to make meaningful adjustments

Value and Potential Benefits

• Increases awareness of clinical trials
• Encourages patients to have conversations with their health care providers about clinical trials as a treatment option to help identify clinical trials they can participate in 
• Improves diversity and inclusion by engaging with patient populations that are previously underrepresented in our clinical trials
• Improves retention, as patients may be better informed ahead of clinical trial participation and therefore have more time to make an informed decision (e.g., fewer unknowns or surprises for the patient)