Community consultation in northern Thailand: the Chiang Rai microbicide research community advisory group

Abstract

Issue High-quality, relevant, ethical HIV prevention research requires consultation with members of the communities from which study participants will be recruited. Description To enhance research quality and responsiveness to community needs, we formed the 'Chiang Rai Microbicide Research Community Advisory Group' during protocol development for a vaginal microbicide clinical trial. The 12 members (10 of whom are women) are local community leaders and persons drawn from community-based organizations, local health centers, commercial sex establishments, and the research group. During the six meetings in the first year, the group learned about their expected role, and attained a good understanding of vaginal microbicide research and development, and clinical trial concepts such as randomization, blinding, and use of a placebo. The study protocol, consent forms, and patient educational materials were reviewed in detail and, as a result of the consultation process, we made numerous modifications to these. Conclusion Establishment of a community advisory group was especially useful in developing study procedures, consent forms, and patient education materials. The research team also gained valuable experience in communicating complex ideas to potential participants. In introducing the concept of community consultation, it is important to ensure that group members understand their role and the goals of the consultation, the technology being developed, and the overall research process.