Toolkit to foster patient, public involvement in clinical trials

A new toolkit, developed by CT:IQ and the Australian Clinical Trials Alliance (ACTA), offers a comprehensive set of resources and guidelines for fostering active participation of patients and the general public in clinical trials.

Aimed at development of more effective, patient-centric healthcare solutions, the publication of the toolkit has received the PHRP Excellence Awards — Highly Commended In Practice paper.

Titled ‘Development of the Consumer Involvement & Engagement Toolkit: a digital resource to build capacity for undertaking patient-centred clinical trials in Australia’, the paper was published in Public Health Research & Practice in March this year. The paper highlights the significance of consumer involvement in clinical research.

Commenting on this achievement, Lisa Eckstein, CT:IQ’s Programme Director, said, “We are thrilled that the paper has been recognised by PHRP in this year’s excellence awards. The award showcases the benefits of organisations like CT:IQ and ACTA and what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation and dedication to advancing clinical trials.”

Professor Steve Webb, Chair of ACTA, stated, “ACTA is incredibly pleased to see recognition of this paper and would like to congratulate the authors and everyone from ACTA and CT:IQ who contributed to this key piece of work. This award from PHRP reaffirms the crucial role consumers play in shaping the future of health care through engagement in clinical trials and research.

Image credit: iStockphoto.com/Drazen Zigic