Do clinical trials meet current care needs? Views of digestive oncology specialists in Galicia (Spain) using the Delphi method

Abstract Background: In recent years, abundant scientific evidence has been generated based on clinical trials (CT) in the field of oncology. In spite of this, there are still major disagreements among the group when it comes to establishing a treatment and therapies for these kinds of patients. The general objective of this paper is to find out the extent to which decision-making is based on knowledge of the most recent CT. Its specific objectives are to pinpoint difficulties with decision-making based on the CT performed and find out the motivations patients and clinicians have when taking part in a CT. Methodology: Combined, prospective study, based on the Delphi method. Results: A lack of correspondence between the people who take part in CT and patients who come for consultation has been identified. Healthcare professionals' motivations for taking part in a CT include finding better treatment for the patient and boosting their research career. A need for training in analysing and interpreting CT has also been identified and a lack of trust in the results of CT financed by the pharmaceutical industry itself has been perceived. Conclusion: There is a difficulty in selecting oncological treatment due to the lack of correspondence between the patients included in the CT and patients seen in consultation. In this process, real world data studies may be highly useful, as may be providing this group with greater training in interpreting CT and their results. Aiding the professional progression of their research career is an incentive for clinicians to participate in a CT.