Innovating information-delivery for potential clinical trials participants. What do patients want from multi-media resources?

OBJECTIVE: To discover whether the provision of clinical trials information via a multi-media platform could better meet the needs, preferences and practices of potential cancer trial participants.
METHODS: A mixed qualitative and quantitative questionnaire was delivered to 72 participants from cancer support groups to elicit views on the provision and design features of multimedia resources in delivering clinical trials information.
RESULTS: Perceived lack of information is an expressed barrier to clinical trials participation. Multimedia resources were viewed positively as a way to address this barrier by most potential clinical trials participants; in particular by helping to align information to individual needs, promote active engagement with information, and by allowing more control of the learning experience. Whilst text remained the most valued attribute of any resource, other highly rated attributes included the resource being simple to use, easily accessible, having a clear focus, incorporating examples and visual aids, and being interactive. Provision of support for the learning resource was also rated highly.
CONCLUSION: As in other areas, such as education, multimedia resources may enhance the delivery and acceptance of information regarding clinical trials. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Better alignment of information may have a positive impact on recruitment and retention into clinical trials.