‘Keep an open mind’: using qualitative research to make recruitment easier in the by-band randomised controlled trial

Results In Phase I, interview data revealed recruiters’ varying levels of equipoise and preferences, and patient pathway charting identified complex clinical arrangements. Audio-recordings and observations of recruitment appointments highlighted five key challenges to recruitment: a) there was little discussion of By-Band b) By-Band was not well integrated into the clinical service c) eligibility assessment was unclear d) patient preferences were accepted at face value and e) information provision was not tailored to the patient. In Phase II, suggestions to recruiters included integrating the RCT within current service provision, streamlining eligibility assessment, exploring patient preferences, providing balanced and tailored information, and requesting patients to keep an open mind throughout the appointment. Recruitment rates increased from 4% prior to feedback to 30% and 64% in the two months following feedback. Research is on-going to further optimise recruitment.