Artificial intelligence tools for optimizing recruitment and retention in clinical trials: a scoping review protocol

Abstract

Abstract Background In recent years, the influence of artificial intelligence technology on clinical trials has been steadily increasing. It has brought about significant improvements in the efficiency and cost reduction of clinical trials. The objective of this protocol is to conduct a comprehensive review that aims to systematically map, describe, and summarize the current utilization of artificial intelligence in recruitment and retention process of clinical trials. Additionally, it aims to identify the benefits and drawbacks, as well as the barriers and facilitators associated with the application of artificial intelligence in optimizing recruitment and retention in clinical trials. The findings of this review will provide valuable insights and recommendations for future development of artificial intelligence in the context of clinical trials . Methods The review of relevant literature will follow the methodological framework for scoping studies provided by the Joanna Briggs Institute. A comprehensive electronic search will be conducted using the search strategy developed by the authors. Leading medical and computer science databases such as PubMed, Embase, Scopus, IEEE Xplore and Web of Science Core Collection (including SCI-EXPANDED, SSCI, A&HCI, ESCI), will be searched. The search will encompass all original research, descriptive studies, randomized controlled trials, pilot studies, conference papers, comments and feasible or acceptable studies published in English, without any time limitations, that utilize artificial intelligence tools in the recruitment and retention process of clinical trials. The review team will carefully screen the identified studies and import them into a dedicated electronic library specifically created for this review. Data extraction will be performed using a data charting table, which will include publication details, study design, and specific outcomes/results. Discussion The objective of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive overview of current status of artificial intelligence tools utilized in recruitment and retention process of clinical trials. By examining the existing literature, we aim to identify the barriers and facilitators that have influenced the application of these tools. Through our study, we will uncover gaps in the current knowledge, which can guide future research efforts. Additionally, our findings will offer recommendations to stakeholders regarding the use of artificial intelligence tools and may contribute to the advancement of their application in clinical trials. Systematic review registration: Open Science Framework https://osf.io/c9yhk/