Optimizing Clinical Trials: Getting The Right Results By Keeping it Real

Clinical trials must evolve and accelerate the development of innovative therapies, particularly in oncology. Current research highlights disparities in trial participation by minoritized groups, reducing their access to breakthrough cancer treatments. Biopharma companies and contract research organizations (CROs) can address these gaps through the use of real-world data (RWD) to enhance protocol design, optimize site selection, and improve patient matching. RWD allows for the identification of sites with relevant patient populations, which can increase diversity and ensure that trials reflect real-world demographics. However, the adoption of RWD in clinical trials remains limited due to challenges like resource availability and data analysis expertise. Despite these obstacles, early adopters of RWD report its usefulness in protocol development and site selection. By partnering with technology providers experienced in clinical research, like Flatiron Health, organizations can streamline protocol design and site selection processes, meet regulatory diversity requirements, and bring more representative and efficient trials to market.