Traditional Engagement for Research
Traditionally, basic science research and clinical research have been performed in the university setting. Pharmaceutical and device trials are frequently performed in both the university and private practice settings. The approach to patient engagement as it pertains to research was typically directed towards patient recruitment for the trial. Filling vacancies in a trial and completing research studies is both financially and professionally important for the researcher (and the entity for whom that researcher works). The research was rarely used to actively enhance the image of the program or to develop other business opportunities.
Despite the traditional approach to patient recruitment, there were passive and often unintentional benefits for the program that show us that patient engagement can enhance care (See Our Top Ten Reasons to Improve Patient Engagement). Having an active research group elevates the perceived expertise and standing of a program and the individual clinicians within it. Additionally, advertising that a trial exists, in essence, advertises for the program itself.
Engaging Patients with Research
Developing an active research program for a private practice, health system, or even a new program for a university can yield a variety of benefits.
First, and foremost, an active pharmaceutical trials program provides patients with access to medications at an early stage. For many patients, this is not important; but for some, such access is of great importance. In some cases, access to a novel therapeutic agent is the last and best hope available.
Even if you do not have patients who will benefit directly from being in a clinical trial, the fact that you are involved in studies may increase your patients’ perception that you are committed to finding the best treatment options for them. Involving yourself in research helps you stay up to date in your specialty and subspecialty areas and makes you more of an authority in your patients’ eyes. All of this can, in turn, increase trust in the relationships you have with your patients.
Having an active pharmaceutical and/or device research program improves the image of the practice. Advertising the presence of such studies, even when these do not directly apply to a given patient, enhances the perception of the practice. Participating in more basic research can also produce a similar effect.
Working in these programs also helps you make contact with pharmaceutical companies, device companies, and basic researchers. This will then create additional opportunities for your participation. Furthermore these companies and researchers are likely to provide additional positive word-of-mouth advertising.
Obviously, pharmaceutical trials and device trials can also provide additional revenue for the practice. In some cases, the added revenue will cover some additional staff. In other cases, the potential revenue can be quite significant.
Intellectual Property
Finally, working in these programs increases your opportunity for creating your own intellectual property. These ideas can be developed on your own or more likely pitched to one of the companies with whom you have developed a collaboration.
Preventing Bias and Perceptions of Bias
When engaging in research, it is important to address possible perceptions of bias or actual bias. Remember to remain critical and evaluate your own and others’ results with great care. Make sure your patients know you understand that clinical trial results and real-life improvements may differ. Be open and above-board, disclosing all relationships with companies whenever appropriate.
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