Conducting clinical research in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic: Challenges and lessons for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology research.
Katijah Khoza-Shangase, Nomfundo Monroe, Ben Sebothoma
PMID 35924604WHAT IT FOUND
Clinicians face ethical and logistical hurdles when conducting research remotely, such as verifying consent and ensuring data security.
The review suggests prioritizing clear communication over paperwork and using hybrid models to maintain participant access and research integrity during health crises.
Key findings
01Remote data collection introduces biases by excluding participants without internet access or digital literacy, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
02Informed consent processes should shift focus from the physical document to the understanding process, using verbal exchanges and visual aids to address literacy and language barriers.
03Hybrid research models that incorporate decentralized components like remote visits are recommended for use during crises to maintain study continuity while managing infection risks.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The review included only 15 studies, which may limit the breadth of evidence. The search was restricted to English-language publications, potentially missing relevant evidence from other regions. The included studies were diverse in design, including opinion pieces and commentaries, which may vary in methodological rigor. The review focuses on the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and some findings may be specific to emergency conditions rather than routine practice.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret the shift to remote methods as a universally accessible solution. The review explicitly notes that internet access and digital literacy barriers can exclude significant portions of the population, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Remote research must be paired with strategies to include those without digital access.