Key Takeaways and Learnings
- The clinical research sector continues to face challenges in running representative trials.
- Pharmacists’ unique roles within their communities position them to support equitable care.
- Partnerships between clinical research sponsors and pharmacy networks are well-positioned to build toward more inclusive trials.
- See the work we did with the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) for a front-row view of how Acclinate is advancing more equitable clinical research.
Clinical trials have long faced a significant challenge: building trust with historically underrepresented communities. Today, it’s clear that this problem persists. One 2022 analysis of over 22,000 studies found only 43% of medical research participants claimed any ethnicity at all. And how did those individuals identify? Eighty percent were White.
This disparity stems from a legacy of barriers to access, unethical research practices, and ongoing social inequities that make many patients hesitant to participate in clinical research. But as healthcare transforms to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, pharmacists are emerging as a critical bridge in connecting underrepresented communities to clinical trials in a trusted, culturally sensitive way.
Pharmacists hold a unique position in healthcare — often regarded as more accessible and relatable than other professionals. They serve as key advisors in their communities, and their consistent relationships with patients can play a transformative role in fostering trust and advancing equitable care. They're also consistently rated among the top 3 trusted healthcare professions, according to gallup polls.
The Pharmacist and Patient Relationship: A foundation of trust
Pharmacists have a special rapport with patients — one rooted in accessibility. Unlike healthcare providers who may only see patients a few times a year, pharmacists are typically available without an appointment. Patients of all ages frequently interact with their local pharmacist, creating consistent and positive touchpoints that lead to long-lasting relationships.
What does all that mean? It means that patients from all walks of life tend to entrust their pharmacists. One sweeping study that surveyed over 3,000 patients discovered high and moderate levels of trust in pharmacists when it came to prescribing medications, conducting screenings, and providing disease-specific information.
This trust is essential for engaging individuals in underrepresented communities — many of whom have a deep-seated and rational skepticism toward the healthcare system. Pharmacists — particularly those who work in community settings — are well-positioned to counteract nonconfidence. They can open lines of communication, answer questions in an approachable way, and offer culturally competent advice. And, with their established credibility, pharmacists could very well help bridge the gap between patients and clinical trial opportunities.
Pharmacists as bridges to underrepresented communities
The role of a pharmacist in a community pharmacy enables them to be deeply embedded in the cultural and social dynamics of their surroundings. They understand the unique challenges and health concerns that certain demographics face — including language barriers, historical mistrust, and economic limitations. By assessing these factors and fostering a welcoming environment, pharmacists can start to help heal wounds left unaddressed in years past.
For example, pharmacists in underrepresented communities can initiate conversations about healthcare disparities, discussing why diverse participation in clinical trials matters. They can also act as intermediaries who communicate in culturally competent ways — advocating for community health and bridging the gap between patients and the clinical research community. The importance of these connections cannot be understated; when patients feel understood and respected, they are more likely to trust in the safety and integrity of clinical trials.
The role of pharmacists in educating and navigating clinical trials
One of the pharmacist’s most impactful roles in clinical trial recruitment is in education. Pharmacists can demystify the process, explain the purpose of clinical trials, and address common myths and misconceptions. Education is key in overcoming the fears that patients may have — concerns about safety, privacy, and the unknowns of trial participation. By providing clear, factual information in a patient-friendly manner, pharmacists can reduce the anxiety and stigma that often accompany clinical trial discussions.
Practical Steps for Pharmacists in Clinical Trial Education:
- Clarify the trial’s purpose by explaining the goals of a study, who sponsors it, and why it matters for advancing medical knowledge.
- Explain safety protocols by reassuring patients about the ethical safeguards in place, such as Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) and regulatory oversight, to ensure participant safety.
- Address cultural sensitivities by discussing the specific needs of diverse populations, which may relate to language, dietary considerations, or religious practices.
- Empowering patients to make informed decisions by helping them navigate through the complex information surrounding clinical trials.
Innovative approaches to pharmacist involvement in clinical trials
As the industry recognizes the value of pharmacist involvement, innovative models are emerging to formalize their role in community engagement and trial recruitment and retention. For example, partnerships between clinical researchers and pharmacy networks, like Cencora’s Good Neighbor Pharmacy Network, have led to initiatives where pharmacists proactively discuss trial opportunities with eligible patients. These collaborative efforts can be especially impactful in areas where patients may not have access to primary care providers but visit their pharmacist regularly.
In some cases, pharmacists are trained as clinical trial ambassadors, equipped with specific information about active studies and taught how to engage patients effectively. Such programs not only increase awareness, but they also position the pharmacist as a key resource for patients interested in trials. By actively participating in outreach, pharmacists can improve trial enrollment rates while promoting equitable care.
Paving the way for a more equitable future
The role of pharmacists in clinical trials is rapidly evolving, and their unique position as accessible, trusted healthcare providers offers an innovative solution to one of the industry’s most persistent challenges. By empowering pharmacists to act as clinical trial advocates, healthcare organizations can tap into a valuable resource for building trust, driving diverse participation, and enhancing health equity.
As partnerships like those between Cencora and Acclinate demonstrate, engaging pharmacists in clinical research is a powerful step toward transforming healthcare into a more inclusive, trustworthy, and patient-centered system. By supporting this growing role for pharmacists, clinical researchers can make meaningful strides in creating trials that truly represent the diversity of our communities — leading to better outcomes and a more equitable healthcare landscape.
Learn more about engaging communities to participate in clinical trials. Schedule a 1:1 with our team.
