3 Tips For Better Clinical Trial Representation

A lot is being written and discussed about patient representation in clinical trials. It is obvious that we are not where we need to be as the majority of studies maintain relatively homogenous patient groups. Here’s a snapshot of typical study population demographics:

• 83% of research study participants in the U.S. are white
• 5% are African American
• <1% are Latino

The traditional model for clinical trials, where patients visit clinical sites to see physicians and allow the clinical study team to collect data, inherently blocks out large groups of patients. Patients living too far away from study centers, those without the economic means or support systems to make regular visits, and those with conditions that inhibit travel (mobility challenges, immunity challenges, etc.) lack access to study opportunities. Add in highly complex studies and a dearth of proven ways to raise awareness of trials in general, huge groups of patients are locked out of clinical research.

Fortunately, there are now technologies and tools – powered by data-science – that can help. Following are three tips for improving access to studies for more patient communities and increasing study representation.