However, as our reliance on technology increases, how are participants and clinical trial stakeholders supposed to react when technology fails? In the case of lost or broken devices, sites and patients lose the ability to enter data per protocol. can cause missing data and, if not rectified in a timely manner, could impact the validity and outcomes of south africa rcs data the research, leading to incomplete datasets and invalid conclusions.
Mitigating missing data as a result of broken or lost devices is an essential part of every electronic Clinical Outcome Assessment (eCOA) strategy. If a patient is relying on a provisioned device to enter their data, it is imperative that the eCOA provider is equipped to deliver a new provisioned device in a timely manner, regardless of patient location. If a bring-your-own-data strategy is being deployed, patients have the advantage of re-installing the eCOA application on another personal device, negating the need for a replacement provisioned device, reducing the time that the patient is without a collection method.
Loss of Connectivity
While rare, sites and patients may experience loss of connectivity due to poor cellular infrastructure. Therefore, it’s beneficial to work with an eCOA vendor that offers offline capabilities. With offline mode, participants and sites can continue to enter data, as well as receive any device reminder notifications that drive protocol compliance and adherence to study schedules.