A Comprehensive Assessment of the Knowledge, Perceptions, and Communication Needs about Clinical Trials among Adults in Rural South Carolina

Investigators:

Sei-Hill Kim, PhD, School of Journalism and Mass Communications
Andrea H. Tanner, PhD, School of Journalism and Mass Communications
Daniela B. Friedman, MSc, PhD, Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior

Funding Agency:

Health Sciences South Carolina (HSSC)

Amount:

$200,000 (January 15, 2011 - December 15, 2011)

Abstract:

This proposed research addresses the important question of how to promote awareness of and participation in clinical trials among rural residents in South Carolina (SC). The state of SC remains largely rural, with 39.5% of the population living in rural areas, compared to 21% nationally (US Census Bureau, 2000).  It has long been demonstrated that rural citizens experience significant health disparities, with factors such as limited access to health care services, lower rates of health insurance, lower socioeconomic and educational status, and cultural and social differences contributing to these disparities (Health Sciences South Carolina, 2010; SC Rural Health Research Center, 2008; University of Pittsburgh Center for Rural Health Practice, 2004).

The Specific aims of this proposed study are 1) To examine the current state of clinical trials in SC and to determine to what degree rural residents are represented in state clinical trials; 2) to assess rural SC adults’ current knowledge and beliefs about clinical trials; 3) analyze current communication messages and channels being used to recruit and educate SC residents about clinical trials; and 4) to provide recommendations for innovative strategies for communicating about clinical trials with SC rural populations.
Findings from this study will be necessary for the future development and assessment of a pilot education program about clinical trials in rural SC.

This project is funded by Health Sciences South Carolina (HSSC). Data collection will begin in January 2011 and conclude in December 2013.

Dissemination:

Kim, S., Tanner, A. and Friedman, D. B. (2010, October). “A Comprehensive Assessment of the Knowledge, Perceptions, and Communication Needs about Clinical Trials among Adults in Rural South Carolina,” Project Overview presented to HSSC Board of Directors, Clemson, SC.