A personal perspective of patient-centred clinical trials

Key objective: To illustrate the first-hand journey of three early phase trial participants highlighting their benefits and challenges of participation and patient-centric innovations required to improve trial experience. Knowledge generated: Early phase trials have traditionally centred on dose-finding and toxicity. However as they have increased in number and improved in therapeutic intent, the patient experience becomes increasingly important. This article illustrates benefits of participation including access to novel therapies, support and close monitoring but challenges around eligibility criteria, finances, and communication. Proposed solutions including trial navigators, enhanced communication training, and greater flexibility in enrolment criteria to improve trials access.