Enhancing Trial Access and Combating Health Disparities: A Focus on Rutgers Cancer Institute’s Initiatives

Mariam F. Eskander, MD, MPH, and Coral O. Omene, MD, PhD, from the Rutgers Cancer Institute, share effective strategies for increasing access to clinical trials, especially for underrepresented communities.

One of the key approaches they’ve taken is ensuring that patients know about available clinical trials. In their health system, trials are integrated into community sites, making participation easier. By using a single review board and pharmacy system, patients don’t need to travel far to access these trials. As a result, participation among minority patients has steadily increased over the years.

Dr. Omene highlights the importance of community engagement. They work with community leaders to raise awareness about clinical trials. These leaders then share information within their communities, fostering conversations that might not happen otherwise. They hold events like town halls, allowing researchers to connect directly with community members and inform them about ongoing trials.

Dr. Eskander adds that understanding social determinants of health is crucial. Many patients face challenges based on their living conditions, which can impact their health more than medical care itself. By acknowledging these barriers, healthcare providers can better support patients. They emphasize the need to screen for social factors and address issues like transportation and costs, as these can hinder access to care.

Recent data supports their points. For instance, Black patients from vulnerable neighborhoods are less likely to enroll in clinical trials compared to their White counterparts. Addressing these social and economic barriers could help improve racial diversity in clinical trials. Additionally, statistics show that Black women in low-income areas are diagnosed with aggressive forms of breast cancer at higher rates than those in wealthier neighborhoods. This reinforces the urgency of addressing these disparities.

Overall, the commitment to improving access and support in the community is vital for enhancing participation in clinical trials and ultimately improving health outcomes.

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