Real-World Heroes: How Patient Participation Transforms Clinical Research

“Anytime a patient goes on a clinical trial, that is a gift to humanity—one patient’s involvement can make a significant impact down the road for all of humanity.” This quote from Michael Goodman, MD, captures the essence of patient contributions in a clinical trial.¹ Patients are fundamental to clinical trials because their participation is essential for generating medical knowledge, improving treatments, and developing new therapies.

Patients participate in clinical trials for a variety of reasons. They may see this opportunity as an avenue to access new treatments not yet available to the public, to receive specialized care, or to contribute to medical knowledge. Participation in a trial can provide valuable insights into the patient’s specific disease or condition, thus helping them better understand their own health. They may then feel more actively involved in their own healthcare as they help advance treatments for future generations.

There is interdependence between the patients in clinical trials and the researchers in the healthcare field. Patients rely on healthcare professionals for their care and treatment, while clinical trial researchers are crucial for advancing knowledge and improving healthcare practices. This interdependence is a multifaceted relationship involving decision-making, communication, and ethical considerations. Clinical trials are the primary way to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new drugs, therapies, and treatments. Patients’ participation helps researchers understand how a new treatment works in real-world conditions, which may lead to more effective therapies.

Most recently, patient engagement technologies, including digital health platforms, AI chatbots, telehealth, and patient portals, have been used to support clinical trial patient retention. The bottom line is that trials contribute to the development of new treatments for diseases and conditions as well as new ways to effectively interact with patients.

For anyone who has ever stepped up to participate in a clinical trial, know that your healthcare team is sincerely grateful for your involvement. Your willingness to contribute your time and effort has been invaluable to furthering research. Your commitment to help advance the field of study is greatly appreciated as the potential impact of this research is made possible by your gift. Thank you for being a part of a clinical trial.

Reference

1. Bristol Myers Squibb. Excellence in clinical trials. Accessed April 29, 2025. www.bms.com/about-us/responsibility/bristol-myers-squibb-foundation/our-focus-areas/diversity-in-clinical-trials.html