JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The pharmaceutical products development relies on thorough and costly clinical trials. Participants’ recruitment and monitoring can be challenging. The incorporation of cutting-edge technologies such as Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized clinical research, particularly in the recruitment stage, enhanced secure data storage and analysis, facilitated participants’ monitoring while protecting their personal information.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the utilization of novel digital platforms and their features such as e-recruitment, e-consent, and matching aiming to optimize and expedite clinical research.

Methods:

A review with a systematic approach was conducted encompassing literature from January 2000 to December 2022. MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were examined thoroughly using a customized search string. Inclusion criteria focused on digital platforms involving clinical trials' recruitment phases, with international presence, scientific validation, regulatory approval, English language, and no geographic limitations. Literature reviews and unvalidated digital platforms were excluded. The selected studies underwent meticulous screening by the research team, ensuring a thorough analysis of novel digital platforms and their utilization and features in clinical trials.

Results:

A total of 18 digital platforms were identified, supporting clinical trials‘ recruitment phase. In general, most of them provide a range of functionalities including electronic consent, participants’ matching and monitoring of patients’ health status. These supplementary features enhance the overall effectiveness of the platforms in facilitating the recruitment process for clinical trials. The analysis indicates a notable surge in the adoption of these novel digital tools, particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.

Conclusions:

This study underscores the vital role of identified digital platforms in clinical trials, aiding in recruitment, enhancing patient engagement, accelerating procedures, and personalized vital signs monitoring. Despite their impact, challenges in accessibility, compatibility, and transparency require careful consideration. Addressing these challenges is crucial for optimizing digital tools integration in clinical research, allowing researchers to harness benefits while managing associated risks effectively.