Aim: To describe the learnings in recruiting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research participants from a regional cancer centre.
Methods: First Nations patients with cancer and/or their caregivers were screened and approached as potential study1 participants using two different approaches: 1) Clinician researcher/external research assistant (RA) and 2) an embedded First Nations research coordinator (FNRC). These different approaches were reviewed and adapted during team meetings, and discussion notes and recruitment logs were reviewed to reflect on adaptations and processes.
Results: Prior to embedding a First Nations RC, recruitment and survey completion was low. Reflections included: the importance of collaborating with the Indigenous Hospital Liaison Officers; making meaningful local connections; building rapport with potential participants; allowing time for relationship building and trust, whilst considering study timelines. Importantly, the FNRC role is not solely focused on the research study, but also ensures participants are well supported throughout their journey, with the FNRC advocating for and connecting to additional support when the need is identified.
Conclusion: Embedding a First Nation’s RC within our cancer centre has improved participant engagement and ultimately, recruitment and data collection. Our key learnings throughout this process include: knowing your local community helps identify what will work; building capacity and capability of the First Nations research workforce is important, as is having flexibility in the RC role to support both clinical care and research; empowering potential participants in both their health journey and their choice in participating in research is critical. In the words of the RC: “We are humans before we are patients.”