Physicians’ knowledge, attitude, practice and perceived barriers to subject recruitment for randomized controlled trials in ghana.

Abstract

Objectives: This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, practice and perceived barriers to subject recruitment into randomized controlled trials, and determine strategies to maximize subject recruitment and retention. Methods: A cross sectional, quantitative survey of 73 physicians working in Ghana was conducted assessing their knowledge and attitude towards randomized controlled trials, subject recruitment practices, self-reported barriers to subject recruitment and strategies to enhance subject recruitment. Results: Responses from 73 Ghanaian physicians were analyzed. 23 (31.5%) respondents knew of ongoing clinical trials in their specialty in Ghana while 32 (43.8%) physicians knew about trials in their specialties in various places in the world. 23 (31.5%) physicians responded that they had referred patients for recruitment into clinical trials before. 49 (67.1%) respondents had never referred any patient for recruitment into clinical trials. Conclusion: Most Ghanaian doctors are unaware of ongoing trials in their specialty and thus do not refer patients for recruitment.