"We're making it possible for people to participate in clinical trials without needing to travel outside their communitiesoften they can participate virtually from home."
That's the bold pronouncement of the Mayo Clinic in a press release on its new approach to clinical trials, which it calls "pragmatic trials."
What that means, per the release, is that researchers can now bring experimental treatments to people in their daily lives without having to travel to a hospital or clinic.
In fact, the press release notes that 85% of US citizens own a smartphone, and 20% own a smartwatch or other wearable tech.
What's more, the release notes that clinical trials are moving out of traditional research facilities and into the everyday lives of participants.
"Instead of asking participants to come to us, we're going to them," says a Mayo Clinic cardiology fellow.
What this means, per the release, is that researchers can now quickly identify people who may be eligible for a trial, shorten the time they need to wait before a trial can begin, and reduce the need for follow-up appointments and other contacts between study staff and participants.
What's more, the press release notes that these digital tools can help overcome barriers that might prevent people from participating in a trial, such as
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