Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Jeanne Connors

Abstract

Clinical trials are needed to make new medications, devices, and diagnostic tools available. Participants in these clinical trials have historically come from a homogeneous group, and there is a recognized need for increased diversity and representation in these clinical research studies. The absence of diversity in clinical trials makes it difficult for clinicians and researchers to know which medications and devices are safe and effective for specific populations. This basic qualitative phenomenological study was conducted to explore the experiences of clinical research principal investigators regarding diversity in clinical research studies and how to improve it. The theoretical framework for this study was the socio-ecological model. The participants were principal investigators from clinical trials who were recruited through social media, professional groups, forums, and word of mouth. Participant interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed to identify the emergent themes. The seven emergent themes were: (a) passionate about working in clinical trials, (b) increased awareness over time, (c) frustration with stringent eligibility criteria, (d) the perception that increased diversity among staff is needed, (e) knowledge and awareness of multifaceted barriers to having diverse participants in clinical research, (f) concerns that no formal training exists, and (g) optimism for the future with strategies and solution. The study’s implications for positive social change include the study findings being used as a guide to attract more underrepresented minorities to participate in clinical trials that could result in increased diversity in clinical research studies to help bridge the gaps in health disparities and improve health equity.

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