Patient preferences in randomised controlled trials: conceptual framework and implications for research.
Patient preferences have recently been highlighted as a potential threat to the validity of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Although there have been significant methodological and statistical developments in relation to these issues, comparatively little attention has been paid to the development of a conceptual model concerning preferences and their effects on decision-making. This article describes the development of such a model, which was undertaken in parallel with a systematic review of the empirical data concerning preference effects. The model describes the concept of preference in terms of theoretical concepts from the psychological and economics literature, and describes a preliminary model of the development and operation of preferences in the context of RCTs. The paper then examines the implications of the model for informed consent and recruitment procedures. Key issues for future research are also outlined.
Bower
Peter
P
NPCRDC, 5th Floor, Williamson Building, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK. peter.bower@man.ac.uk
King
Michael
M
Nazareth
Irwin
I
Lampe
Fiona
F
Sibbald
Bonnie
B
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003657:Decision Making; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009013:Morale; D010349:Patient Compliance; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D018579:Patient Selection; D015990:Placebo Effect; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic