Recruiting for rheumatoid arthritis trials through rheumatologists

Which physicians refer to rheumatoid arthritis trials?

• Rheumatologists, who manage most patients with established disease.
• Primary care physicians, for studies in early or newly diagnosed disease.
• Orthopedic and hand specialists, who sometimes see patients before a rheumatology diagnosis.

What decides eligibility in most rheumatoid arthritis studies?

Usually three things a rheumatologist already knows: current disease activity, which prior therapies the patient has tried or failed, and how long they have been on their current treatment. With an average screen failure rate of 36.3% across therapeutic areas (Tufts CSDD), putting those criteria first in the physician summary is the simplest way to reduce wasted screens.

Why does speed matter in rheumatology?

Tufts CSDD found rheumatology among the therapeutic areas with the highest relative daily direct trial costs (PubMed). Sponsors value sites that bring in qualified patients quickly.

How do you keep rheumatologists referring?

Report back. Nearly 30% of physicians never hear from a site after referring (Tufts CSDD). A site that confirms each referral, explains why a patient did not qualify, and updates the physician on enrolled patients builds a lasting source (Applied Clinical Trials).

What should a rheumatoid arthritis outreach plan include?

1. The core specialists and relevant primary care physicians within realistic driving distance of the site.
2. A one page summary with the diagnosis requirements, key exclusions, procedures, and visit schedule.
3. A named coordinator contact, and a commitment to report back on every referral.
4. Follow up by email and LinkedIn, prioritizing physicians who engaged.

See referral strategy by therapeutic area for other conditions.