Diversity In Clinical Trials: Walking The Walk

By Sheila Omondi, Practice Lead, Clinical Planning and Strategy Consulting

At the recent Summit for Clinical Ops Executives (SCOPE), discussions surrounding diversity in clinical trials persisted, underscoring a decade-long struggle to effect meaningful change. Despite the attention it has garnered, progress remains sluggish, prompting reflection on the industry's pace of innovation. Addressing this challenge demands deliberate, proactive efforts across the research continuum.

From accessibility barriers to mistrust and stigma, recruiting diverse populations poses multifaceted challenges. Paula Nwajei, a leader in patient engagement and clinical trial diversity, advocates for embedding diversity considerations into trial planning from the outset. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating patient feedback throughout protocol development to ensure relevance and accessibility.

Nwajei underscores the value of patient-centric approaches, urging sponsors to pivot from site-centric to patient-centric models. This entails meeting patients where they are, whether through decentralized trials or community partnerships. Moreover, building trust requires cultural competence and strategic engagement via digital platforms, while navigating ethical considerations around information sharing and data privacy.

Discover why achieving true diversity demands more than rhetoric—requiring genuine engagement, cultural humility, and a commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of marginalized communities.