Unique Digital Images as Incentives in Clinical Trials: A Digital Shift Toward Meaningful Participation
By
Xavier Tadeo
Gyula Seres
Peter Wang
Yoann Sapanel
Alexandria Remus
Jasmine L Eyal
Jason Kai-Wei Lee
Simon Chesterman
Julian Savulescu
John Eu-Li Wong
Christopher L Asplund
R Brian Stone
Benjamin C K Tee
Reza Shokri
Marlena Raczkowska
Li Ming Chong
Siong Peng Kwek
Agata Blasiak
Dean Ho
June 8, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Innovative Digital Visuals as Motivators in Clinical Research: A Transition to Enhanced Engagement
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Clinical trial recruitment and retention challenges
Key Mechanisms Use of digital images as personalized trial incentives to enhance participant engagement
Target Population Individuals eligible for clinical trials
Care Setting Clinical research environments
Key Highlights
Traditional monetary incentives are often insufficient for participant engagement. Digital artwork can serve as a unique, ownable artifact that enhances identity and motivation. Behavioral science principles suggest that intrinsic value can motivate participation. Current recruitment strategies show limited effectiveness in improving enrollment rates. A forthcoming feasibility study (Avatar.DTx) will explore digital images as participation incentives.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Management
Monitoring & Follow-up
Risks
Monetary compensation may compromise study integrity and participant honesty.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Participants in clinical trials, including healthy individuals and patients with specific conditions.
Participants are motivated by various factors beyond monetary compensation, including altruism and curiosity.
Clinical Best Practices
Consider alternative incentive structures beyond traditional monetary compensation. Utilize digital and personalized incentives to enhance participant engagement. Explore the impact of participant identity and agency in recruitment strategies.
Related Resources & Content