The Recruitment and Retention of Individuals With Intellectual Disability in Randomized Controlled Trials: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: People with intellectual disabilities face significant health disparities and often encounter barriers in accessing healthcare services. Although research supports the need for reasonable adjustments to improve healthcare access for this population, implementation in acute healthcare settings remains limited. Methods: This scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's framework. A systematic search was performed across six databases, including MEDLINE and Scopus, to examine recruitment and retention strategies for individuals with intellectual disabilities in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Results: Out of 78 selected studies, three main themes emerged: recruitment through community and organisational support, tailored communication strategies and relationship-building approaches to enhance participant engagement. The findings highlight challenges related to ethical concerns, consent processes, gatekeeper access and discrimination. Conclusions: The review emphasises the importance of inclusive strategies in RCTs involving people with intellectual disabilities. It recommends collaborative efforts, targeted training, flexible research protocols, practical support mechanisms, advocacy and dedicated funding to facilitate disability-specific trials and ensure equitable, evidence-based healthcare interventions.