November 22, 2023
In this engaging discussion, we delve into the dynamic and evolving world of digital therapeutic (DTx) and decentralized clinical trials (DCTs). We’re joined by industry experts Joel Morse, CEO and Co-Founder at Curavit, and Andy Molnar, CEO at Digital Therapeutics Alliance, offering unique perspectives on this field’s current challenges and innovative strides. Their in-depth knowledge and experience shed light on the complexities and breakthroughs in conducting effective clinical trials in digital therapeutics, a field at the forefront of modern healthcare and clinical trials.
Moe Alsumidaie: How Do You Address Participant Recruitment Challenges in Decentralized Clinical Trials for Digital Therapeutics?
Joel Morse: In digital therapeutics, we adopt extensive web-based recruitment strategies, encompassing social media and email campaigns to target diverse demographics nationwide. This involves creating tailored ads reflecting the specific populations we aim to recruit, such as varying ethnicities, age groups, or genders. Efficiency in gaining IRB approval for these ads is crucial. We’ve also seen success in tweaking these ads throughout the trial to maintain participant engagement and interest.
Andy Molnar: Emphasizing the importance of diversity in trials, we aim to prevent any inherent biases in digital therapeutic tools. This is especially significant in mental and behavioral health areas, where biases can significantly impact treatment outcomes. Digital therapeutics have the potential to treat patients in an unbiased manner, but this requires deliberate efforts in trial design to encompass a wide range of demographics.
Moe Alsumidaie: What is the Impact of Digital Therapeutics in Healthcare?
Joel Morse: Digital therapeutics are revolutionizing healthcare by offering treatments that are more accessible and unbiased, catering to a wide range of patients. The efficient use of digital platforms for recruitment and engagement is a testament to this evolution.
Andy Molnar: These therapeutics are changing the face of healthcare, particularly for conditions like autism, where traditional diagnostics might be biased. Digital therapeutics offer the promise of treating any patient, anywhere, without the biases that might be present in traditional healthcare settings.
Andy Molnar CEO Digital Therapeutics Alliance
Moe Alsumidaie: How Important is Data Management in Digital Therapeutics Trials?
Joel Morse: Effective data management in digital therapeutics trials hinges on meticulous planning. From the outset, it’s essential to know what data will be captured, as realizing midway through a trial that crucial data is missing can be detrimental. The challenge lies not in the technology but in the planning and executing data management strategies, balancing the data collection against participant burden and cost considerations.
Moe Alsumidaie: Can You Discuss the Regulatory Challenges in Digital Therapeutics?
Joel Morse & Andy Molnar: The regulatory landscape for digital therapeutics, especially regarding FDA guidelines and global standards, presents a significant challenge. A particular area of concern is the use of sham apps in trials, akin to placebo controls in traditional drug trials. This is complex and expensive, and there’s ongoing debate about its necessity and effectiveness. Ensuring data sufficiency for not just regulatory approval but also for insurance coverage and reimbursement is another hurdle.
Moe Alsumidaie: How Do You Ensure Patient Safety in Digital Therapeutics Trials?
Joel Morse: Safety in digital therapeutics trials is often enhanced compared to traditional trials. Many of these trials are categorized as low-risk by regulatory agencies. Moreover, the virtual nature of these trials allows for more consistent oversight, better adherence to protocols, and potentially greater participant engagement. This, in turn, leads to higher-quality data and improved safety management.
Andy Molnar: Distinguishing between clinically validated digital therapeutics and the vast array of health apps is crucial for ensuring patient safety. Ensuring that the digital therapeutics being used are effective and safe is essential, especially in scenarios where incorrect guidance could lead to serious health consequences.
Joel Morse CEO Curavit
Moe Alsumidaie: What Lessons Can Be Learned from the Experience of Companies Like Pear Therapeutics?
Andy Molnar: Pear Therapeutics’ journey offers crucial lessons for the industry. They played a pioneering role in digital therapeutics, investing significantly in industry growth and policy development. Despite their bankruptcy, their contributions towards Medicare coverage and regulatory engagement are noteworthy. Their experiences underscore the importance of strategic focus and resource allocation, particularly in navigating market access challenges in digital therapeutics.
