The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is taking decisive steps to address the persistent challenge of underrepresentation in clinical trials through an upcoming interactive webinar focused on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in research participation.
The webinar, scheduled for January 30, 2024, brings together a distinguished panel of experts to examine how involving individuals with lived experience can enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of clinical studies across the United Kingdom.
Expanding the Scope of Inclusive Research
The initiative reflects a broader evolution in clinical research diversity, moving beyond traditional ethnic representation to encompass socioeconomic status, gender identity, and disability. This expanded focus acknowledges that achieving true representation requires nuanced, stage-specific solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Expert Panel Composition
The webinar features an accomplished panel of healthcare and research professionals:
- Barbara Molony-Oates, public involvement manager at the Health Research Authority, who has spearheaded the Shared Commitment to Public Involvement initiative
- Rosamund Round, leader of Parexel's Patient Engagement team, bringing expertise in decentralized clinical trials and patient access
- Sarah Fallon, Chief Operating Officer at NIHR Clinical Research Network Greater Manchester, offering insights into research strategy implementation
- Trishna Bharadia, an award-winning patient advocate and consultant, recognized for contributions to pharmaceutical medicine and patient engagement
Addressing Implementation Challenges
While the importance of EDI in clinical research is widely acknowledged, implementation remains complex. The panel will explore practical solutions for:
- Early identification of EDI challenges through patient involvement
- Development of adaptive strategies for different research phases
- Enhancement of participation opportunities across the UK population
- Integration of patient perspectives throughout the research journey
Strategic Impact and Future Directions
The webinar represents a significant step toward creating a more representative clinical research landscape in the UK. By bringing together expertise from regulatory bodies, industry leaders, and patient advocates, the initiative aims to establish practical frameworks for implementing EDI principles across all stages of clinical research.
The discussion will focus on sharing best practices, identifying common obstacles, and developing actionable solutions to ensure research benefits are accessible to all population segments. This collaborative approach underscores the growing recognition that diverse representation in clinical trials is essential for advancing medical research and improving healthcare outcomes for all communities.
