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Presenting clinical trial information: a comparison of methods
Patient Education and Counseling
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Interactive computer programs may improve patient attitudes toward clinical trial entry without affecting understanding or satisfaction. This teaching method shows promise for enhancing patient engagement in research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Education
- Health Informatics
Background:
- Patient education is crucial for clinical trial participation.
- Traditional methods of conveying trial information may have limitations.
- Innovative approaches are needed to improve patient comprehension and willingness to enroll.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of audio tapes versus interactive computer programs for educating patients about clinical trials.
- To assess patient satisfaction, information understanding, and likelihood of trial entry based on the teaching method.
- To determine if interactive teaching components negatively impact clinical trial accrual.
Main Methods:
- One hundred cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy were randomized into two groups.
- One group received hypothetical trial information via audio tape; the other via interactive computer program.
- Patient understanding was assessed one day post-information delivery.
- Satisfaction and trial entry intention were assessed one week later.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed in patient understanding or satisfaction between the audio tape and computer program groups.
- Patients in the computer program group showed a trend towards a more positive attitude regarding trial entry (P=0.05).
- Women with higher understanding scores were more likely to decline participation in the hypothetical trial.
Conclusions:
- Interactive teaching methods, such as computer programs, appear to be a viable option for educating patients about clinical trials.
- These methods do not seem to adversely affect patient satisfaction or understanding.
- Interactive components may positively influence patients' willingness to consider clinical trial participation, warranting further investigation with actual trial decisions.