Building inclusive clinical trials through policy reform

Despite long-term consensus on the importance of diversity and inclusion in clinical trials, many populations remain underrepresented. There are multiple reasons why these inequities persist, but one is often location. Clinical trial centres are concentrated in city hospitals in economically developed countries, with limited information about or support to reach them for people in more remote or underserved communities.

Many companies are working globally to widen access to clinical trials through initiatives in research and development, medical and patient engagement. However, now more than ever, policy engagement is vital to ensure political and health system environments also support increased diversity.