Another major challenge for patient recruitment is the lack of access to trials. The vast majority of trials are conducted at Clinical Research Sites. These are often large institutions such as universities or hospitals that are located in urban areas.Which limits participation to individuals who can conveniently travel to these specific locations – often defined as a radius of around 50-60 miles from a Site.

There are also smaller Research Sites that conduct trials – which are usually either dedicated sites or private medical practices seeking to generate additional revenue. However, in the same way as with the larger Sites, these smaller venues also face the limitation of attracting patients who can conveniently travel to their premises.

As well as travelling, of course, the time commitment required to take part in a trial poses an additional hurdle – as prospective participants must juggle their existing responsibilities, such as work or other commitments, with attending trial appointments.