Text messaging allows providers to disseminate information rapidly and widely. This method is not only cost-effective but also boasts high engagement rates, as texts are typically read within minutes of receipt.
Appendix A of The Prevention and Treatment of Missing Data in Clinical Trials offers that the purpose of clinical trials is, “In order to sequentially investigate safety and then efficacy and effectiveness issues in a manner that protects human subjects from harm, the process of investigating new treatments typically goes through a phased series of clinical trials.”
Clinical trials are research studies that test the safety of new medical treatments, including drugs, devices, and therapies, before they are widely available to the public. The primary purpose of these trials is to ensure that medical innovations are both safe for patients and effective in treating or preventing health conditions.
In the context of healthcare, clinical trials help identify the best methods for disease management, potentially leading to breakthrough therapies that can improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life.
Communication allows for all participants, from researchers and healthcare providers to trial participants and regulatory bodies, to be well-informed and coordinated. Effective communication helps in recruiting and retaining participants by clearly explaining the trial’s processes, benefits, and risks. It also maintains transparency, builds trust among participants, and ensures adherence to protocols.
See also: Improve patient engagement with HIPAA compliant text messages
Text messaging exploits the near-universal presence of mobile phones; indeed, in 2021, an estimated 3.09 billion mobile phone users were using over-the-top messaging apps, and projections indicate that this number will increase to 3.51 billion by 2025. This wide accessibility exists because text messaging does not rely on high-speed internet connections or the latest digital technologies. As a result, it is accessible even in remote or underserved areas where broadband services may be unreliable or unavailable.
It is intuitive and does not require advanced technical skills, making it especially beneficial for reaching older adults or others who may not be comfortable using more complex technologies. It also offers a cost-effective communication method for individuals in lower socioeconomic brackets who may not afford regular internet service but typically have access to basic mobile phone services that support SMS.
See also: How text messaging can help promote accessibility
Participants typically sign up to receive text messages during the initial screening or enrollment process, where they provide consent to be contacted via SMS for trial-related communications.
Yes, text messaging can be an effective tool for sending urgent updates or health alerts to participants.
Participants are encouraged to update their contact information with the trial coordinators as soon as possible to continue receiving trial-related messages without interruption.