Use social networking in clinical trials

An exacting approach to recruitment, in-depth knowledge of participant populations, and proven retention methodology are vital to the success of early-stage clinical trials. So says Stephanie Wells of Charles River Laboratories, in an article from sister publication FiercePharma.

The use of fliers in high-traffic areas, referral bonus programs, event sponsorships and local media advertising are not enough, she argues. Using a website to communicate recruiting priorities allows potential participants access to trial information, but a website is only the minimum level of technology involvement that should be used. "Emerging social and software applications allow a CRO to stay connected with the participant," she writes. Online registration and appointment making aid recruitment and retention.

Use of social networking should come as no surprise to those conducting clinical trials, given TrialX's April launch of an application that allows Twitter users to find clinical trials. 

- read the FiercePharma article
- read our TrialX coverage