Improving follow-up of indigent patients enrolled in medical research studies: a review of two studies in which 100% follow-up was obtained.
Follow-up of indigent patients is difficult. Demographics collected at initial hospitalization change often and are unreliable. In a boxer fracture study, at 1-year follow-up, 3 out of 100 patients were available. This poor performance prompted investigation of new methods for intake/ongoing care. A direct comparison of two studies was conducted. In study 1, demographics were obtained per standard hospital procedure. Patients were paid $50.00 per visit as an incentive. In study 2, expanded demographics were gathered. Related contacts were identified and credibility was verified. Rapport was established with the patient and family. In both studies, 100% follow-up was obtained. Significant difficulty was experienced obtaining follow-up in study 1. Patients attempted to renegotiate compensation. Follow-up was perceived as unnecessary and unpleasant. Study 2 patients kept appointments, expressed comfort during follow-up, and felt part of the treatment team. In both cases, availability of patients for follow-up increased dramatically. Financial compensation was troublesome. Providing access to an interested medical team was less cumbersome and provided superior results.
Rudd
Joseph
J
Director of Orthopaedic Research, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA. joe.rudd@erlanger.org
Currey
Thomas
T
Goldberg
Tyler
T
D003625:Data Collection; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D008489:Medical Indigency; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations