Clinical.ly’s CEO, Henry Kravchenko, joined the Friend or Foe: Decoding Technology’s Contribution to Equitable Trials panel discussion at the SCRS 2024 Global Site Solutions Summit alongside Zoé Felicié, Vidhya Gedela, Joel Morse, Neil Sheth, and facilitator, Alicia Staley.
In this session, the panelists explored technology’s critical role in promoting diversity in clinical trials. They examined the complexities of integrating technology in underserved communities, emphasizing the importance of making technology an enabler rather than a barrier to supporting diverse patient populations and equitable trials. The panelists provided insights on designing and implementing technology-driven strategies to achieve equitable clinical trials that cater to all stakeholders’ needs.
Technology is a one-solution-fits-all is a common misconception
The conversation highlighted the crucial point that while technology has the potential to enhance clinical trials, it is not a universal solution. Henry commented, “One common misconception is that technology is a one-solution-fits-all and that a single solution can meet every trial participant’s needs.” This assumption often stems from vendor practices, which may not fully support the diverse requirements of sites and patients. It is essential for Sponsors to demand more from their vendors and clearly articulate their unique needs.
We cannot assume a technological solution will work forever
Another key takeaway is that just because a technological solution addresses a problem today does not mean it will remain effective in the long term. We cannot assume that what works now will remain viable in 20, 10, or even 5 years. As we move forward, we must remain adaptable and open to evolving technology solutions that cater to the changing landscape of clinical research and support equitable & inclusive trials.
During trial design, it is critical to differentiate between access and comfort
We must recognize that even though participants have access to cell phones, computers, and the Internet, they may not feel comfortable utilizing this technology. For instance, while eDiaries are an effective tool, some individuals may hesitate to use them because they are unfamiliar with mobile devices. Offering backup options is essential to accommodate varying levels of comfort and familiarity.
Vendors are responsible for simplifying the user experience, ensuring that complexity is hidden from the end users, whether they are site staff or study participants. By considering these factors, we can design trials that truly consider the diverse experiences of all participants, ultimately leading to more inclusive and successful outcomes.
Considering the patient’s perspective
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, it is crucial to recognize that not everyone engages with technology in the same way. There exists a broad range of technical literacy among study participants, which can significantly influence their experience in clinical trials. To ensure we meet the needs of all patients, we must adopt their perspective and test our technology, products, and solutions from the patient’s viewpoint. It is important to conduct thorough research beforehand and actively engage with the community to gather insights rather than develop technology solutions solely from the vendor’s perspective.
In summary, engaging with the community, testing our solutions, and acknowledging the difference between access and comfort will allow us to design trials that genuinely reflect patient needs. Ultimately, our commitment to applying technology with nuanced approaches that consider diverse patient populations will enhance the participant experience and lead to more diverse and equitable clinical trials.