JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Community Advisory Boards (CABs) play an essential role in clinical and translational science. Due to the safety protocols put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic the CABs at all three Mayo Clinic locations (AZ, FL, MN) transitioned from meeting in person to meeting virtually. Data was collected from current members at all three sites to gain insight into the use of a virtual platform compared with meeting in person.

Objective:

This study collected data from current CABs members at all three sites to get insight into the use of a virtual platform compared with meeting in person. The data collected in this study was sought to help guide future decisions surrounding CAB meetings.

Methods:

This study used a one-time cross-sectional survey that was distributed to a convenience sample of Mayo Clinic CAB members. The digital survey was sent out to CAB members using email addressed provided by the members. The survey consisted of 11 questions.

Results:

Fifty-five percent of members said their ability to attend meetings had increased and 45% reported this stayed the same; none reported a decrease. Data showed that 80% of CAB members reported their experiences had increased in a positive direction or stayed the same when attending virtual meetings compared with in person meetings. 61% of respondents indicated a high level of attending all future meetings using a virtual platform.

Conclusions:

The findings from this study provide insights into the feasibility of conducting CAB meetings using a virtual platform compared with meeting in person. Data collected from this survey can aid other CABs at various institutions on the preferences of current members on attending virtual meetings compared with in-person meetings. The data and knowledge obtained from this study surrounding the use of virtual meetings can aid CABs in their ability to continue to provide their essential services despite the limitations on meeting in person.