Let's Change The Subject

Over the past few years, many interested in patient-centricity in clinical design and processes have banished the old word "subject" to describe those who volunteer as trial participants.

Words matter.  Nobody likes being called a "subject."  It conjures up visions of royal underlings or targets of police actions or objects.  It's simply not patient-centric.  It does not reflect the valuable role that people who volunteer for clinical trials have in these projects.

In the fight against ALS, many healthcare professionals and researchers question why it is so difficult to fill clinical trials.  What can we do?  Using words more respectful of the most important people in the projects might be a good start.