As pressure grows for clinical research to be more representative, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: true inclusion doesn't start with recruitment goals, but rather relationships.
In the latest Site Landscape Survey from the Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS), 83% of respondents noted they have made or plan to make DEI-related modifications through community outreach.
That shift reflects a deeper realization across the industry: if we’re serious about addressing health disparities in research participation, we have to meet people where they are — and earn their trust first.
The push for representative enrollment is about more than regulatory compliance. It’s about scientific rigor and health equity. Research shows that genetic, environmental, and social determinants of health can influence how different populations respond to medical products. When trials fail to include a broad spectrum of participants, the real-world efficacy and safety of those products come into question.
That’s why federal agencies like the FDA are moving toward legislation that may soon require sponsors to submit diversity action plans as part of clinical trial designs. (It’s worth noting some changes in regards to the visibility around draft guidance.) While these mandates are important, they can’t replace what makes a difference in clinical trial participation and retention: connection.
Reaching underrepresented communities doesn’t happen by accident — and it certainly doesn’t happen from behind a desk. The most successful strategies around community engagement for clinical trials are grounded in cultural understanding, grassroots outreach, and sustained local presence.
Here are a few ways clinical trial research sites can make an impact:
Community-based organizations, faith groups, and cultural centers often hold a unique position of trust. Collaborating with places of worship, senior centers, cultural festivals, or neighborhood clinics can provide a vital bridge to populations who may be unfamiliar with or even wary of clinical research.
Community health fairs offer a natural setting to engage people in conversations about clinical research. Rather than leading with study details, consider offering educational sessions or one-on-one consultations to demonstrate value and care.
Before launching recruitment campaigns to bring in research participants, take time to learn from the community. Conduct listening sessions or advisory panels to understand local concerns, historical barriers, and preferred communication styles.
Transportation, time off work, childcare — these are everyday obstacles that prevent many from participating in clinical trials. Offering flexible scheduling, transportation support, or at-home visits (if clinical trial criteria allows) can significantly improve both clinical research participation and patient engagement.
When research sites invite community members into their space for non-research services — like health education, preventive screenings, or wellness clinics — it creates an open door to long-term engagement. These efforts send a powerful message: We care about your health, not just your eligibility.
At Remington-Davis (RDI), we’ve seen firsthand how this type of community outreach for clinical trials can foster real results. While we’re known for our high enrollment and retention metrics, the foundation of that success is our commitment to meeting people where they are — literally and figuratively.
We’ve built relationships by participating in local health fairs, visiting senior centers, attending church events, and hosting free wellness clinics at our facility in Columbus, Ohio. These clinics offer accessible testing and health resources, giving community members a chance to connect with us without pressure or expectation. It’s a low-barrier way to start a high-value conversation.
That investment in connection is reflected in our numbers, but more importantly, it’s reflected in the trust we’ve built across central Ohio. Nearly 37% of our enrolled participants come from diverse backgrounds, and our 98% retention rate is proof that people stay when they feel seen, supported, and respected.
RDI’s community engagement is headed up by one of our most experienced investigators, Roy St. John, MD. Having access to a highly respected, board-certified physician—not a coordinator or intermediary—sets the tone for meaningful collaboration. Dr. St. John’s presence signals to our partners and participants that they are valued, their concerns matter, and clinical research is being done with, not just for, the community.
Here’s one testimonial we recently received from a leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology company that speaks to our outreach initiatives:
"Thank you for your commitment to inclusive research! ...You exceeded our Global Ethnic Majority (GEM) objective of 29%, enrolling 42% GEM participants! Your incredible efforts have contributed to representative enrollment in this trial."
As the industry moves toward more inclusive research, community engagement must be viewed as a cornerstone versus an add-on. Building trust takes time, empathy, and visibility. But the result is more than clinical trial diversity; it’s equitable care, improved outcomes, and stronger science.
For sponsors and CROs seeking sites that understand this from the ground up, the choice of partner matters. Look for teams who aren't just talking about community engagement and improving health equity in research findings, but living it.