Social Media and Clinical Trials Recruitment: Potential Benefits and Challenges

Abstract

This column examines the potential uses of social media in the recruitment of patients for clinical trials. Its primary purpose is to provide an overview for health librarians, but clinical trial coordinators and researchers may also find the discussion relevant. Several dedicated Web sites such as Clinicaltrials.gov and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform have played crucial roles in helping patients find out about clinical trials. Due to the popularity of Facebook and consumer health Web sites such as PatientsLikeMe, the use of social media in clinical research should be closely evaluated. Given the complexity of information ecosystems on the Web, the question is whether health librarians can play advisory roles for research teams who may be interested in using social media. Adapted from the source document.