Patient recruitment techniques in clinical trials

Recruitment is never easy, but insurmountable difficulties may arise if this problem is not addressed during the planning phase. Preparation for recruitment must then be started long before the study actually begins. These preparations include building local interest in the participating hospital, visiting local hospitals and medical groups, and informing the general public when feasible. As active recruitment begins, access to the study must be kept open and logistical problems must be solved on a daily basis. Frequent reassessment may demonstrate a failure to maintain goals. Innovative methods for reviving the campaign must then be put in place. Above all, share all successful recruitment methods with others in the study.