Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on a Clinical Trial: A Quantitative Report on Study Engagement and Strategies.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted clinical research worldwide potentially altering research findings. The study purpose was to measure the effect of the pandemic on recruitment, retention, assessment, and intervention completion rates. Enrollment and participation data from a clinical trial evaluating efficacy of a physical therapy intervention for high-risk preterm infants were compared across 3 pandemic periods (February 2019 through November 2021). Recruitment, retention, assessment, and intervention completion rates were lowest during the peak pandemic period. In compliance with the Human Subjects Review Board, and for the participants' and staff safety, transition from in-person to telehealth or hybrid visits was required to continue this longitudinal study. Despite the negative effect of the pandemic, parental resilience and commitment to the study was clear. Flexibility, quick action, dedication, and efficiency of the research team were key elements enabling study continuation with successful transition to telehealth assessments/interventions during the peak pandemic period.