Beyond what could easily be described as a numbers business where days equal dollars and data determines financial life or death is you. And me, him, and her. Without us, clinical research couldn’t exist.
But as obvious as this fact is, it’s easy to forget some days. It’s also easy to forget about the people who do sign the consent form and agree to loan their most valued possession, their body, to medical science.
Without a face, we’re often left with only cynical or sober reasons for why someone agrees to a trial. That is, it’s either for money or because standard treatment isn’t working. But put a face on participation, and sometimes a different story unfolds.
“There was a period of time in my life where I had a lot of contact with my doctors and I grew to trust them, respect them, and they saved my life. And I wanted to help them as well.” That’s why Kaye Spector says she’s participated in not only one clinical trial but three—so far. There may be more in her future because, as she puts it, “I always say yes.”
What she also does is write about it. As a medical/health writer for the Plain Dealer, Spector was inspired by a weekend conversation with her nephew to put pen to paper and share her experience. The resulting essay received positive feedback and its author a speaking invitation from the Society for Clinical Research Associates.
“They’re very eager to hear from a trial participant,” says Spector, “I didn’t expect that really, but I’m glad to get the message out.” Which will, in this case, discuss the right way to handle trials. For Spector, that includes having the investigator—not a nurse, coordinator, or anyone else—explain the study. That’s how it worked in all three of hers, and this direct involvement left her clear on what to expect.
On a grand scale, Spector’s message reminds us how important the doctor and patient relationship is and that noble people still exist. “I’m not going to make a huge contribution to the medical profession,” she says, “but of course I hope that we can make strides to eradicate cancer. And this is one way I can do that.”
Thanks Kaye.
One Comment
I agree with the author that many times in the process of meeting requirements and addressing economic factors in clinical research, the patients are forgotten. In many cultures where the doctor-patient relationship is still a traditional one, the decision to participate in clinical trials is dependent in large part on the physician’s recommendation to do so. This also plays an important role in a patient’s attitude toward their treatment. Therefore, establishing trust between the patient and the investigator can in part influence the outcome of a clinical study.