a man smiling at a senior woman

Building Patient-Driven Trials

REACHING PATIENTS, SUPPORTING SITES

Most patients never hear about trials for which they may qualify and benefit. And, if they do, the trial may not be designed in a way to ensure a patient’s optimal participation. That’s one reason why PPD launched SiteCoach, our customized training program built to support investigators and physician practices that are new to clinical research.

Helping new investigators navigate the complexities of patient recruitment, educate patients on their options and reduce the administrative burden of trials paves the way for a more successful experience for both sites and patients – a win-win for clinical research. 

We further support sites by crafting patient-friendly literature and paying careful attention to health literacy to facilitate positive discussions between health care providers and their patients about participating in clinical trials.

Our patient concierge service provides personalized support to patients, helping them with visit reminders, transportation coordination, medication reminders and other tasks that challenge participation in clinical research.

These examples demonstrate PPD’s commitment — we aim to engage more patients while improving retention and easing site burdens.

0 %

of patients would consider a clinical trial if their physician suggested they do so1

0 %

of patients have had this discussion with their
physician2

0 %

of principal investigators who conduct a clinical trial for the first time do not participate again

DESIGNING PATIENT-DRIVEN STUDIES

The patient experience is not simply a satisfaction metric; it can dramatically impact the efficiency and outcomes of clinical trials.

Patients themselves have the clearest view of the burden of study visits, procedures and diary regimens – elements that are particularly impactful for patients with complex, chronic or disabling conditions.

To capture their insights, PPD engages patient advisors – individuals with real-world trial experience – to assess your trial for undue burdens and obstacles. Additionally, we survey hundreds of patients each year about their disease experience and their perceptions toward clinical trial participation and specific protocol requirements.

Their input empowers our experts to refine your protocol design for optimal recruitment and retention. Further, we operationalize their insights to pave the way for a positive experience throughout the trial, from full-service concierge services to home health visits, telemedicine and study apps that digitally transmit data to reduce reliance on site visits.

0 %

more procedures involved in clinical trials over the past decade3

0 %

planned visits involved in clinical trials over the past decade4

CELEBRATING PATIENTS: PPD HEROES

A single story of a life changed or a loved one cured speaks volumes to people worldwide about the role of clinical research in bringing new medicines to those who need them.

The PPD Heroes program is designed to increase the public’s awareness of the essential role they play in helping to test experimental drugs and devices for their own and future generations’ ultimate benefit.

These champions serve as yet another example of PPD’s core belief that engaging patients in every facet of clinical research drives better, safer and more positive outcomes.

Sara Ashenfelter, optimization associate director at PPD, has been diagnosed with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis (LIP), and otosclerosis.

John Hamlet, senior director of project management at PPD, has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

site and patient solutions

Learn how PPD’s site and patient solutions can help you reach more patients.