Patient Centricity Award 2024: FOMAT Wins SCRS Recognition
The patient centricity award for 2024 has been earned by FOMAT, receiving the prestigious Excellence in Patient Centricity Award from the Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS). Sponsored by Sanofi, this award recognizes clinical research sites that place patient experience at the heart of their operations. FOMAT’s innovative use of artificial intelligence to enhance patient engagement and recruitment stood out among nominees, showcasing a deep commitment to making the clinical trial process more accessible, inclusive, and patient centered.
Leading the Way With AI Powered Patient Engagement
FOMAT’s approach to earning the patient centricity award centers on AI tools that make clinical trials more engaging and supportive for participants. A key element of their success is their AI driven virtual assistant, Lucy. Lucy ensures that all patient inquiries are promptly addressed, providing participants with a seamless experience from their very first contact. The virtual assistant’s ability to respond immediately reinforces the sense of being heard and valued — a core element of FOMAT’s patient centered philosophy.
In addition to Lucy, FOMAT has integrated AI powered voiceovers in their social media outreach. These voiceovers simplify complex clinical trial information, making it easier for a broader range of patients to understand and engage with research opportunities. By making information more accessible, FOMAT ensures that diverse patient populations feel included and informed. This approach has helped reach patients from various backgrounds who might not typically consider participating in clinical trials.
A Reflection of Dedication to Patient Centric Innovation
Upon accepting the patient centricity award, Nicholas Focil, CEO of FOMAT, expressed pride in the recognition from SCRS. “We are honored to be recognized by SCRS and even more so for their Excellence in Patient Centricity Award,” Focil stated. “This award reflects our team’s unwavering dedication to always putting patients front and center. We believe that innovation and technology are key to addressing the evolving needs of our patients and providing them with the best possible care throughout their research journey.”
For FOMAT, the award is not just an acknowledgment of past achievements but a validation of their ongoing mission to innovate in ways that improve the clinical trial experience. Focil emphasized that their use of AI and digital tools is fundamentally about making patients feel respected and valued at every stage of their clinical trial journey.
Industry Leaders Applaud FOMAT’s Commitment
Jimmy Bechtel, SCRS Vice President of Site Engagement, praised FOMAT’s approach to earning the patient centricity award. “The Excellence in Patient Centricity Award celebrates those sites that put patients first, and FOMAT’s innovative approach is truly exceptional. Their use of AI to bridge the gap between patients and research sites sets a new standard in the industry. SCRS applauds their commitment to improving the clinical trial experience and ensuring that patients are engaged, respected, and prioritized at every step.”
Vicky DiBiaso, Head of Patient Informed Development and Health Value Translation at Sanofi, echoed those sentiments. “Sanofi is proud to sponsor the 4th annual SCRS Excellence in Patient Centricity Award. We deeply appreciate the contributions that all trial sites make toward medical advancements. Through this award, we are honored to celebrate FOMAT’s digital innovations, which make clinical research an accessible and positive experience for both patient and caregiver communities.”
FOMAT’s Role in Enhancing the Clinical Trial Experience
FOMAT’s approach to the patient centricity award goes beyond AI tools alone. The organization has consistently worked to create an inclusive environment where patients from diverse backgrounds can participate in clinical research. Their focus on diversity is a key component of their operations, ensuring that all participants feel represented and valued throughout the research process.
FOMAT was one of four finalists for the 2024 award, alongside EMS Healthcare, IMA Clinical Research, and Velocity Clinical Research. The recognition from SCRS sets FOMAT apart as a leader in the clinical research industry, particularly in the use of technology to improve patient experience at scale.
As FOMAT continues to expand its capabilities, it remains committed to using innovation as a means of putting patients first — helping to shape the future of clinical research and ensuring patients are always at the heart of the process.
To learn more about how FOMAT delivers patient centered clinical research across the United States, visit our Physician Investigator Network page or explore our Active Studies to find current research opportunities near you.
Read the full press release on the SCRS website: FOMAT Medical Research 2024 Excellence in Patient Centricity Award.