Personalisation is a growing trend in many sectors—from customised apps on our phones to trim levels and increasing software options on our vehicles. In the medical field, where no two patients are the same, traditional blanket solutions can be both ineffective and discouraging. Using a standard approach for unique patients lowers success rates and leads to costly and inconvenient return visits. With innovative planning and manufacturing technologies, clinicians now have the ability to deliver patient-specific care with the potential to greatly improve outcomes and save lives. This adds up to a trend of mass personalisation and customised treatment.
Personalisation in health care comes in many forms. It can be as simple as letting patients choose between in-person and virtual appointments or as complex as using genetic information to make treatment decisions. For example, the latter can be used to help doctors understand which of their patients are genetically predisposed to developing certain conditions. Furthermore, 3D technologies can be used to plan for procedures and create patient-specific implants that replace damaged or non-existent bone. There are many companies in the mass personalisation space, collectively working to improve patient outcomes by normalising solutions that are as unique as each patient.
Many companies are making strides in the 3D printing and planning medical space. These companies work on a variety of solutions. For example, a team of researchers from ETH Zurich working with Strait Access Technologies has completed initial testing on its 3D-printed silicone heart valves. Meanwhile, Dr. Matthew Griffith from the University of Sydney has designed a 3D-printed retina made of carbon. Clinical trials of the retina could start within the coming years and help restore patients’ sight. U.S.-based Monogram Orthopaedics is designing replacement knees that are as close to patients’ original anatomy as possible, making implants less painful and less likely to fail. Finally, researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a textile-based implant containing cartilage derived from a patient’s stem cells. This type of cartilage preserves joint surfaces and was successfully tested on dogs with hip problems.
From silicone to cartilage to metal, the ability to create personalised implants on-site and get them to physicians—along with improvements in other areas like telehealth and genetics—promises to revolutionise mass personalisation. In the case of personalised health care, those in the medical field are zooming in on the individual patient to improve treatment for everyone. By looking to innovative planning and manufacturing technologies, the medical community—from medical device companies to hospital systems—can implement a patient-specific approach to medical care.
Clinical trials face challenges in the area of patient retention. Low retention jeopardises data quality, delays trial timelines, and inflates costs. Personalised clinical trial technology has become a solution that improves communication, participant experience, and retention rates. Retention depends on trust, communication, and participant burden. Personalised technology focuses on these areas, adapts tools to meet the unique needs of each individual, and creates a seamless, participant-focused experience.
Personalised clinical trial technology addresses participants’ individual needs. Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots provide 24/7 support, answer questions, guide participants, and even assist with technical issues. Consistent engagement reduces frustration and helps participants stay on track.
Wearable health devices are another valuable tool. These devices allow continuous monitoring, provide accurate data, and reduce the need for frequent clinic visits. This convenience allows patients to maintain their normal routines and contribute to critical research. Wearable data also leads to more reliable trial outcomes for researchers.
E-consent platforms streamline the enrolment process. They incorporate multimedia resources to simplify complex medical information so participants can understand what they signed up for. This approach decreases miscommunication and increases retention.
Virtual reality (VR) simulations are another important tool. VR allows participants to experience trial processes in a simulated environment and alleviates anxiety about procedures, which helps participants feel more prepared and confident.
Patient retention strategies are based on effective communication. But many participants drop out because they feel disconnected, face unclear expectations, or experience insufficient follow-ups. Personalised communication tools offer tailored updates, reminders, and educational resources to make participants feel informed and valued.
Patient portals are an example of how technology improves communication. These platforms give participants access to trial schedules, upcoming visit reminders, and test results. Mobile apps allow participants to engage in ways that suit their daily routines, which strengthens their sense of involvement and improves compliance.
Interactive feedback systems are another tool for patient engagement. Participants can share their experience so researchers can address challenges. If a participant faces difficulties with medication adherence, researchers can offer personalised solutions and enhance their overall experience and reduce dropout.
Culturally sensitive communication strategies are crucial for diverse trials. Messaging that respects cultural differences builds trust and improves participant satisfaction.
Retention barriers are usually logistical or psychological. Participants struggle with time commitments, travel requirements, or a lack of connection with the trial team. Technology can address these barriers and dramatically improve retention rates.
Telemedicine is a solution to overcome geographical barriers. Video consultations allow participants to check in with their clinical teams without needing to travel, which makes trials more accessible for those in rural areas. Accessibility promotes inclusion and produces generalisable results.
The complexity of trial procedures creates another challenge. Educational tools that detect participants’ literacy levels demystify medical jargon and help them understand their role in the study. This clarity makes participants more likely to stay engaged.
Financial considerations also contribute to dropout rates. Trial technology integrates reimbursement platforms to compensate participants for time and expenses. This reduces financial strain and demonstrates respect for their commitment.
Personalised clinical trial technology promotes inclusivity and allows trials to represent a diverse patient population. Diverse representation is critical for trial results to be applicable across different demographic groups. Diversity enhances patient trust and retention.
The advantages of adopting personalised technology extend beyond participants to benefit researchers, sponsors, and other stakeholders. Trials with higher retention rates generate higher-quality data, are less likely to face costly delays, and result in better outcomes for sponsors.
Technology-driven solutions also reduce operational burdens. For example, wearable devices not only provide reliable real-time data but also reduce the need for extensive site monitoring visits. This efficiency saves time and resources while ensuring trial integrity.
Another practical benefit lies in predictive analytics. Tools that analyse participant engagement patterns can help sponsors identify those at risk of dropping out. This allows for targeted interventions, such as a personalised call from the trial team, which can make all the difference in keeping a participant engaged.
Finally, regulatory compliance is another area where technology shines. Automated systems reduce the likelihood of human error and ensure that trials meet regulatory standards consistently. This helps avoid costly setbacks while improving trust between sponsors, regulators, and participants.
Investing in personalised technology is not just about efficiency—it’s about making trials participant-centric. A positive participant experience reduces dropouts and encourages long-term engagement, benefiting everyone involved.
Keith Berelowitz is the Founder of trialport, a company redefining patient engagement and retention in clinical trials using living experience, proven methods, and AI.