CISCRP's Mobile Health Exhibit Brings Clinical Trial Education To Communities

Many communities lack access to trustworthy, understandable information about clinical trials. Recognizing that, the Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation (CISCRP) envisioned a solution that would meet people where they are.

Understanding equitable access to clinical research information is more critical than ever, CISCRP launched an innovative mobile educational exhibit to transform how communities, especially those that are historically underserved, engage with and understand clinical research.

The Journey Begins

Inspired by a clear and pressing need — to address disparities in clinical research participation and promote literacy on this topic among diverse populations — CISCRP launched the Journey to Better Health (JTBH) initiative.

In 2022, CISCRP received an Innovation Award from the FDA’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE) to pilot a grassroots mobile education project, now known as the Journey to Better Health mobile exhibit. The goal was to evaluate how community-based education might influence perceptions and behaviors related to clinical research among underserved populations.

In 2023, this customized RV outfitted with interactive displays, educational materials, and accessibility features designed to engage visitors of all backgrounds and abilities visited six major events across Philadelphia and Baltimore, reaching thousands of community members.

A Mission On Wheels

The JTBH initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of clinical research and the need for diverse participation, as well as address barriers to participation (including mistrust, lack of access, and limited understanding). This is accomplished by integrating the exhibit into local events such as health fairs, cultural festivals, and farmers' markets.

The exhibit includes interactive elements such as videos, brochures, and other hands-on educational installations, which provide visitors with easy-to-understand information about the history of clinical research and clinical trials, in both English and Spanish. There is also a focus on the regulations and safeguards in place to protect the rights of research participants.

The initiative also fosters dialogue through one-on-one discussions with trusted community educators and CISCRP staff to create a welcoming space for learning and conversation about clinical research. The community educator team consists of key members of the local community, ranging from faith-based leaders to community engagement specialists to patient advocates. The vital role of these educators is to engender trust within the community by educating through shared lived experiences and building long-term community support. The JTBH initiative promotes lasting impact through these educators as they remain in their communities and continue the conversation about clinical research for years to come.

Since its launch, JTBH has visited four cities and 18 community programs, drawing over 68,000 attendees and reaching 600,000+ through digital marketing. Demographic data from these visits show a strong representation of groups often underrepresented in clinical trials, including those who are Black, Hispanic, and older adults.

Experience the Journey by watching our video that showcases the impact of the initiative:

Measurable Impact

The impact of the JTBH program is routinely evaluated to optimize the effectiveness of this initiative. Visitors are invited to complete surveys before and after viewing the exhibit to gauge any changes in their understanding and perceptions of clinical research. The results speak volumes.

In 2025, 346 visitors completed both surveys. Before visiting the exhibit, only 35% of respondents said they understood clinical research “very well.” Afterward, that number jumped to 58%. Post-visit, more individuals expressed a strong willingness to learn more about clinical research. Perceptions of safety also improved as visitors indicated they were more likely to view clinical research as “very safe” after engaging with the exhibit. The exhibit also sparked curiosity and confidence, with the majority (75%) of attendees indicating they felt empowered to take the next step in learning about or joining a clinical trial.

Perhaps most tellingly, 92% of visitors rated their JTBH experience as “Excellent” or “Very Good.” The most appreciated aspects were the information and resources provided and interactions with CISCRP staff.

Full survey reports can be found on CISCRP’s website.

Voices From The Community

Visitor and community member feedback highlights the program’s value and impact:

“I never knew how clinical trials worked or that people like me could be part of them. This made it real and understandable.”

“We need more education like this! If the RV didn’t come to my neighborhood, I would have never learned anything like this.”

“The staff were so kind and answered all my questions. I feel more confident now about participating in research.”

These stories reflect the heart of JTBH’s mission: to demystify clinical research and build trust through education and human connection.

Looking Ahead

As the JTBH initiative continues to grow, CISCRP is focused on deepening its community partnerships, expanding its educator network, and refining its educational materials to meet the evolving needs of diverse populations. With support from sponsors such as Bristol Myers Squibb, Moderna, and The Michael J. Fox Foundation, the program is poised to reach even more communities for the remainder of 2025 and beyond. In September and October, the exhibit will travel to Buffalo, NY, and Fayetteville, NC.

How To Get Involved

CISCRP relies on the support of organizations that share its commitment to health equity and public education. Sponsors play a vital role in expanding the reach and impact of the Journey to Better Health initiative. By partnering with CISCRP, sponsors can help bring the mobile exhibit to more communities, develop culturally relevant educational materials, and support the training of local community educators. Sponsorship opportunities include event-specific support, regional partnerships, and national program funding. In return, sponsors gain visibility as champions of diversity in clinical research and contributors to a more informed and inclusive healthcare landscape. Organizations interested in supporting JTBH can contact CISCRP to explore tailored partnership opportunities that align with their mission and values.