The eConsent system, which has been included in the law since mid-2022, is software that makes it possible to give digital consent for participation in a study. Now it is being applied for the first time within the PLATFORM-COVID study.
eConsent
In the past, participants had to physically give their consent with pen on paper for medical research. This made national research among acutely ill patients more difficult, because sending the form by post resulted in a delay. Patients and GPs often did not opt for a medical examination because the treatment could only start at a later date. With eConsent people can be treated the same day.
PLATFORM-COVID
Also with COVID-19 it is desirable that the treatment can take place quickly. It is also important that more research is done into this relatively new disease. This is also the reason why eConsent is used here for the first time. A maximum of 24 hours after the GP visit, the patient is contacted via video calls for further explanation. During this conversation, the patient gives digital consent. Due to the rapid handling, the patient receives the right medicine at home the next day.
Large scaled research
From May, patients can be registered for the PLATFORM-COVID study. This is therefore the first national survey that will take place in all general practices. The project is led by the General Practice Research Consortium, which aims to facilitate large-scale research in general practice in the Netherlands.
By: National Care Guide
