The NYU Langone Health network is pioneering an innovative approach to expand clinical trial access by combining artificial intelligence technology with community health worker outreach, according to Kasey Bond, MPH, executive director of administration at Perlmutter Cancer Center.
The initiative addresses two critical challenges in clinical trial recruitment: technological efficiency and community trust. "Clinical trials in certain communities have a certain stigma associated with them, and some patients are extremely nervous about participating or might not even know to ask about a clinical trial as an option," Bond explains.
Breaking Down Barriers with Community Health Workers
Community health workers play a vital role in bridging the gap between medical institutions and local communities. These trusted intermediaries help patients understand clinical trial opportunities without the perceived pressure that might come from medical professionals.
"I think it's important for people to hear it from a member of their own community," Bond emphasizes. "The community health worker serves as kind of a trusted third party. There's no vested interest for them; their only intention is to provide the patient with the most meaningful and useful information for their specific case."
Leveraging AI for Enhanced Patient Identification
The center is implementing AI-powered screening technology to revolutionize the patient identification process. This technological advancement addresses a significant operational challenge, as manual screening has traditionally been time-consuming and resource-intensive.
"AI screening can help us to be able to identify patients in advance who might be appropriate for a particular trial," Bond notes. "That screening process is extremely cumbersome when done manually, and AI seems like a promising solution to be able to identify patients earlier and easier."
Addressing Historical Disparities
A crucial aspect of the initiative focuses on increasing minority representation in clinical trials. Bond acknowledges the historical context: "There's fear in a lot of communities about the fact that there is so little minority representation in many clinical trial accruals that the treatments that are developed and ultimately approved from those trials, there's some concern that those trials weren't conducted in populations that look like theirs."
The combination of culturally competent community health workers and advanced AI technology creates a more inclusive and efficient approach to clinical trial recruitment. This dual strategy not only streamlines the identification of eligible participants but also ensures that patients receive information from trusted sources who understand their cultural context and concerns.
Impact on Treatment Access
The initiative has broader implications for patient care. Bond points out that "a lot of times the clinical trial is the best possible available treatment course for this patient." By improving access and understanding, the program helps ensure that more patients can benefit from cutting-edge therapeutic options.
The program currently operates across the NYU Langone Health network, spanning locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island, demonstrating the scalability of this innovative approach to clinical trial access.
