Communication Strategies for Patient Engagement
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The trial aims to identify the best methods for communicating with people about joining research studies. It tests various letters and messages, some designed to be more engaging, to determine what effectively interests underrepresented minorities in research. Participants will receive these communications in their preferred language, such as English, Spanish, or Chinese, based on their electronic health records (EHR). This trial suits anyone who has used their online patient portal in the past year but has not yet set up a research profile. As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to enhance research communication strategies for diverse communities.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that these communication strategies are safe?
Research has shown that using electronic health records (EHRs) can enhance patient safety. This suggests that new communication methods, such as improved letters and messages, are likely safe. Studies have found that these digital tools facilitate more effective communication between patients and doctors, ensuring clear understanding of health information.
No reports of harm have emerged from these communication methods. Digital tools like secure messaging keep patients informed and engaged in their care, reducing confusion and aligning everyone involved. Clear communication is always beneficial, and these strategies aim to achieve that safely.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores new ways to boost patient engagement using electronic health record (EHR) strategies. Unlike standard communication methods, which often involve generic letters and messages, this trial tests 'optimized' versions that are tailored and potentially more impactful. The idea is to see if these personalized communications can better engage patients in their own healthcare compared to the usual, one-size-fits-all approach. By investigating these tailored strategies, researchers hope to find more effective ways to connect with patients, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this trial's communication strategies could be effective for patient engagement?
Research has shown that personalized communication can greatly increase patient involvement. For example, using a patient’s name in messages can enhance their satisfaction and participation. This trial will explore various communication strategies, including optimized and generic letters and messages. Studies have found that customizing messages with electronic health records (EHRs) leads many patients to view them as caring reminders, encouraging preventive actions. Keeping communication simple and timing messages correctly are also crucial for maintaining patient engagement. Overall, using EHRs to enhance communication offers a promising way to boost patient participation in healthcare.34567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Brian Smith, MD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals from underrepresented minorities who are interested in research participation. It aims to engage patients whose preferred language, as noted in their electronic medical records, includes English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Arabic, or Haitian Creole.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants receive either optimized or generic letters and messages to promote research participation
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for their interest and participation in research studies
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Electronic Health Record Strategies
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Yale University
Lead Sponsor
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Collaborator