Premier Insight 284 | Leveraging Experienced Research Networks for Global Psychiatry Studies in Difficult-to-Access Populations

When approached for an early-in-illness schizophrenia trial, Premier Research knew that patient recruitment would be challenging and require creative approaches for success. Based on our experience in mental illness studies and with this indication, we recognized the importance of identifying sites where patients were already being diagnosed and treated. To achieve this, the Premier team implemented a site network model, in addition to standalone sites, that could reach this difficult-to-access patient population through community mental health practices, academic centers, and private healthcare clinics. The model proved to be successful, with 30% of the patients enrolled via the site networks, leading to accelerated enrollment and increased diversity in the study.