Lessons Learned in Clinical Research Recruitment of Immigrants and Minority Group Members with First-Episode Psychosis

Recruitment of immigrants and racial and ethnic minorities with first-episode psychosis (FEP) for research studies presents numerous challenges. We describe methods used to recruit 43 U.S. Latinos with FEP and their family caregivers ( n = 41) participating in a study to reduce duration of untreated psychosis. A key challenge was that patients were not continuing treatment at an outpatient clinic, as initially expected. To facilitate identification of patients prior to outpatient care, we collaborated with clinic and hospital administrators. Many patients and families were grappling with the aftermath of a hospitalization or adjusting to a diagnosis of a serious mental illness. A considerable amount of time was devoted to addressing participants’ concerns and when possible, facilitating needed services. Our experience underscores the importance of establishing long-term relationships through multiple contacts with patients, families, and stakeholders to address recruitment barriers among underserved groups with FEP.