Can We Attach the Consent Form to the Confirmation Email You Send Referrals When They Pass Prescreening?

Can We Attach the Consent Form to the Confirmation Email You Send Referrals When They Pass Prescreening?

While we understand the importance of providing participants with information and consent forms, we don't encourage attaching them to the confirmation email because of the following reasons:

• They may get intimidated/confused by the information.
  • Attaching a long consent form and information sheet might overwhelm participants and discourage them from going through phone screening / participating in the trial before they have had a chance to talk to study staff (who may have been able to convince them otherwise).
• They would almost always have at least one question (which could be quickly clarified in person). 
  • Participants often have questions that are best addressed in person.
• They can easily decide to read it later, but never really get around to doing it.
  • They may ignore what they receive via email especially if it's a 10-page + document.

Instead, we suggest that researchers provide the information sheet and consent form during the initial visit and have the participant read this with the study staff present to address concerns.

We have a post on our website that touches on the best practices in handing out consent forms to participants. You can read it here.