Chronic illness patients express interest in clinical trials despite low physician referral rates

A national poll of more than 2,000 adults indicates that 71 percent of patients with chronic conditions would be likely to participate in a clinical trial if offered the opportunity. However, two-thirds of these patients reported that their healthcare providers have never discussed clinical trials with them.

While 86 percent of primary care physicians surveyed expressed a willingness to refer patients to trials, only 37 percent have actually done so. The gap between intention and action is attributed to logistical burdens, such as the unpaid time required to search registries and confirm enrollment, as well as the potential for physicians to lose patients to other institutions following a referral.

For those considering participation, the process typically involves several stages: pre-screening via health questions, the review of an informed consent form to ensure voluntary participation, and formal screening to determine eligibility. Participation remains entirely voluntary throughout the study.