August 15, 2023 Clinical Researcher—August 2023 (Volume 37, Issue 4)

PEER REVIEWED

Nadine H. Spring, PhD, CCRC; Jeanne Connors, PhD; Michael Schwab, PhD; David O. Anderson, PhD

Clinical trials play a crucial role in making new medical treatments and devices available. However, historically, these trials have lacked diversity in participant representation, posing challenges in determining the safety and efficacy of treatments for specific populations. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the experiences of clinical research principal investigators (PIs) in addressing diversity in clinical trials. The PI respondents, recruited through social media and professional networks, shared their insights through interviews. Thematic analysis revealed several emergent themes, including a passion for clinical trials, increased awareness of the importance of diversity in clinical trials over time, frustration with eligibility criteria, recognition of the need for diversity among staff, awareness of barriers to diversity, concerns about the lack of formal training, and optimism for future strategies and solutions. The study’s findings have implications for social change by guiding efforts to attract underrepresented minorities to participate in clinical trials, ultimately promoting diversity, reducing health disparities,