Virtual clinical trials have become a popular way for researchers and companies to test new products. But, many people don’t completely understand what a virtual clinical trial is. In this post, we’ll explain what a virtual clinical trial is, how they work, and how you can choose a virtual clinical trial that’s right for your needs.
What is a Virtual Clinical Trial?
According to ObvioHealth, a virtual clinical trial is a clinical trial that is run remotely, meaning that the subjects do not have to come into a physical location to participate.
This can be done in a few different ways: through online surveys, mobile technology to capture data, or having subjects complete tasks or activities at home.
How Do Virtual Clinical Trials Work?
Virtual clinical trials work by having subjects complete a series of tasks or activities at home.
These tasks might include filling out surveys, recording their symptoms, or completing physical tasks. This data is then collected and analyzed to see if the tested product is effective.
How to Choose a Virtual Clinical Trial
When choosing a virtual clinical trial, it’s important to consider your needs and the product being tested. Some things you may want to consider include:
- The Location of the Trial.
Are you comfortable completing tasks online, or do you need to be in a physical location? You may want to consider the trial location if you are traveling or you are not able to come into a physical location.
If you’re geographically flexible, then you’ll have more options open to you. However, there are also many good trials being conducted in specific states or regions. You might want to rule out studies that require traveling if money is tight.
- The Number of Activities and Tasks
Virtual clinical trials can vary in length due to how many activities are involved. You may want to consider your availability and how much time you can commit to a trial when deciding on a study.
Some studies have many activities and tasks, while others only have a few. Consider how many activities/tasks are in the study and if that is manageable for you.
If there are too many activities or tasks, it may not be possible for you to complete them all in a reasonable amount of time.
- The Type of Patient the Study is Seeking
Not all studies are looking for people with a specific condition. Some are open to people with a wide range of conditions, while others are looking for people with a very specific condition.
If you do not have the condition that the study is seeking, you may want to consider spending your time applying if you’re not a good fit.
- Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria
Inclusion and exclusion criteria help define who can and cannot participate in a study. Make sure you are familiar with the criteria before applying.
If you do not meet the inclusion or exclusion criteria, you will not be able to participate even if you want to.
- Is Data Security a Priority?
When taking part in any kind of virtual clinical trial, it’s essential to ensure the security and privacy of your data.
Most virtual clinical trials use de-identified data (e.g., aggregate data), but some require identifiable data (e.g., using a unique link where everyone is logged into the same account). So check the trial website to see the kinds of data required.
Benefits of Virtual Clinical Trials
- Money
Some virtual clinical trials provide compensation for participating in the trial. This can be a good incentive if you need extra money but don’t want to travel or spend time away from home.
- Flexibility
Virtual clinical trials may allow participants to complete tasks and activities on their own schedule.
If you do not have a lot of time or cannot come into a physical location, this may be a good option for you.
- Convenience
Since virtual clinical trials take place online, all the materials you need will be sent to you electronically.
This means that there is no need to go out and purchase anything or print anything out. Everything will be sent to the app, browser, or email address you provide.
- Privacy
Taking part in a virtual clinical trial can provide the privacy that some people prefer. If you do not want to be seen or talk to anyone, a virtual study might be a good option.
- Accessibility
Some virtual clinical trials are open to people from all over the world. This can be helpful if you do not live near a physical trial site.
Virtual Clinical Trials Wrap Up
If you’ve considered these points and feel a virtual clinical trial is a good fit for you, then be sure to apply when you see a study that interests you.
Keep in mind that not all studies have open enrollment. It’s best to sign up at the beginning so that your application doesn’t go to waste.
Sam Collier is the founder of Fifium, a web and mobile application development blog dedicated to sharing expert knowledge and insights in the tech industry. With over 15 years of combined experience among its developers, Fifium started as a small group of like-minded professionals passionate about mobile development and has grown into a respected source of information and guides.
