Objectives: To explore attitudes to and problems experienced with recruitment into randomised trials in cancer care.
Methods: In-depth semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 20 hospital clinicians in the South West of England identified from 192 participants in a larger postal survey. Interviews were recorded on audiotape and fully transcribed. Data were analysed by comparing transcripts and describing emergent themes.
Results: Clinicians do not always find it easy to identify key randomised trials in their area of interest. Even when they identify those trials in which they would like to participate, they are not always able to recruit patients. Although recruitment can be hindered by the time and administration involved and the resources needed, the attitudes of clinicians to research in general, the design of randomised trials, clinicians' concerns regarding individual patients and patients' preferences for different treatments also present major barriers. Other factors of concern include the imposition of strict eligibility criteria and the expense and complexity of monitoring and follow-up.
Conclusion: Barriers to recruitment depend on the clinicians' individual situations and on a complex combination of factors. Action is needed to promote awareness of randomised trials under way, to ensure that trials address issues of importance, are acceptable to patients and clinicians, and that practical support is provided for participating centres.