The DHN Strategy

Let’s Set the Stage for Inclusion

At DHN, we believe that clinical trials should reflect the diversity in real-world patient populations. More importantly, the efficacy and safety data that support drug approvals need to be sufficiently robust to translate from patient populations enrolled in clinical trials to the larger, real-world patient populations.

We believe that clinical trials should reflect the diverse populations they aim to serve. Our goal is to break down barriers and ensure all communities have the opportunity to participate, benefit from, and be represented in research that shapes the future of healthcare while also offering a potential to increase life expectancy and/or quality of life.

Life expectancy can be influenced by various factors such as healthcare, lifestyle choices, economic conditions, access to education, and environmental factors. DHN's goal is to level these influences by helping to provide access to clinical trials.

We also believe that the organizations who run clinical trials should be positioned to substantiate - and document - the reliability and relevance of the data from having diverse participants in the studies they conduct and publish.

Overall, promoting diversity in clinical trials is not only beneficial for the organizations conducting the studies but also for society as a whole. It can lead to more robust research outcomes, improved healthcare practices, and better health outcomes for diverse populations.

Pillars of DHN’s Approach: Our three pillars of Community Engagement, Culturally-Responsive Recruitment, and Participant Retention are reflected in everything we do.

By emphasizing these three pillars - Community Engagement, Culturally-Responsive Recruitment, and Participant Retention - DHN’s goal is to help sponsors and academic centers conduct more inclusive, representative, and successful clinical trials that benefit both the research community and the participants involved.

Achieve Diversity through Intentional Processes with DHN

Our strategy is anchored in our three pillars: Community Engagement, Culturally-Responsive Recruitment, and Participant Retention. By integrating these elements into a cohesive strategy, we ensure that diversity is not just a checkbox, but a core outcome of clinical research.

Key Focus Areas:

Engagement, Recruitment and Retention Strategies: At DHN, our strategies involve establishing relationships and partnerships with the communities where clinical trials are conducted. With a focus on involving community members in the research process, understanding their needs and concerns, and ensuring that the research is relevant and beneficial to the community. By engaging with the community, researchers can build trust, increase participation and retention rates, and enhance the overall quality of the study. We collaborate with our clients to create tailored recruitment and retention strategies to connect with and engage underrepresented communities.

Partnerships and Collaborations: The DHN team combines subject matter expertise, our extensive partnership network and our On-Site Enrollment Specialists to achieve clinical trial success.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study conducted to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions, such as drugs, devices, or intervention. treatment plans, in people. Clinical trials are designed to answer specific questions about new treatments or new ways of using existing treatments. Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary, and participants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the researchers. Clinical trials are essential for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care by testing new treatments and interventions.
Who conducts clinical trials?

Clinical trials are conducted by various organizations, including pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centers (such as Universities and research institutions, contract research organizations (CROs), non-profit organizations (such as the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundations), and government agencies (such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Overall clinical trials involve collaboration among research, healthcare providers, regulatory agencies and participants, like you, to ensure that new treatment is safe and effective.
Are clinical trials only for people with serious illnesses?

No, clinical trials are not only for people with serious illnesses. Clinical trials encompass a wide range of studies that investigate new treatments, interventions, or procedures across various health conditions and diseases, including both serious illnesses, and less severe conditions or reviews standard of care practices. Clinical trials can also focus on preventive strategies, diagnostic tools, and quality-of-life improvements for individuals at different stages of health and disease. Some clinical trials may involve healthy volunteers to study basic aspects of human biology or to test the safety of new interventions before they are tested in individuals with specific health conditions. It's important to know that clinical trials are designed to advance medical knowledge, improve patient care, and enhance public health, regardless of the severity of the condition being studied. People interested, like yourself, in participating in a clinical trial should carefully review the trial's criteria and discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and if appropriate family member(s) before making a decision.
How can I find clinical trials to join?

You can find trials through government databases like ClinicalTrials.gov, research hospital websites, patient advocacy organizations, community outreach programs, or by consulting your healthcare provider. Social media and online platforms are used to recruit participants for clinical trials too.
Do clinical trials cost money?

Participating in a clinical trial as a study participant typically does not cost money. In fact, many clinical trials provide study-related medical care, tests, and investigational treatments at no cost to the participants. Additionally, some trials may even compensate participants for their time and travel expenses. However, it's important to note that while participating in a clinical trial as a study participant is usually free, there may be associated costs that are not covered by the trial sponsor. For example, participants may still be responsible for their regular medical care, non-study-related tests or treatments, and other expenses not directly related to the trial. Before enrolling in a clinical trial, it's crucial to carefully review the informed consent document provided by the research team. This document should outline any potential costs or expenses that may not be covered by the study, as well as details about what is provided at no cost to participants. If you have any concerns about the financial aspects of participating in a clinical trial, be sure to discuss them with the research team before making a decision to enroll. It's important to have a clear understanding of any potential costs or financial responsibilities before agreeing to participate in a study.
Do I get paid for participating?

Some trials may offer compensation, but this varies by study. Compensation typically covers expenses like travel or time commitment.
Will I benefit medically from participating?

Participating in a clinical trial can offer various potential medical benefits. By enrolling in a trial, you may have the opportunity to access new treatments and interventions that are not yet available to the general public. These cutting-edge treatments could potentially be more effective than standard treatments and may offer hope for improved health outcomes. Additionally, participants in clinical trials receive close monitoring and care from medical professionals throughout the study. This frequent monitoring can lead to early detection of any health issues or complications, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment. The personalized attention and care provided in a clinical trial setting can enhance your overall medical management and well-being. Furthermore, by participating in a clinical trial, you are contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and research. The data collected from the study may help researchers better understand the disease or condition being studied, leading to improved treatments and interventions for future patients. Your participation plays a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare and may have a lasting impact on the lives of others. Moreover, some participants find personal satisfaction in contributing to scientific research and potentially helping others in the future. Knowing that your involvement in a clinical trial could lead to advancements in medical science and better treatment options for individuals with similar health conditions can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. However, it's essential to recognize that not all clinical trials guarantee direct medical benefits to participants. Some trials may involve a placebo or standard treatment comparison group, where participants may not receive the investigational treatment being studied. In these cases, the primary goal of the trial is to gather scientific data to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the treatment.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study conducted to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions, such as drugs, devices, or intervention. treatment plans, in people. Clinical trials are designed to answer specific questions about new treatments or new ways of using existing treatments. Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary, and participants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the researchers. Clinical trials are essential for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care by testing new treatments and interventions.
Who conducts clinical trials?

Clinical trials are conducted by various organizations, including pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centers (such as Universities and research institutions, contract research organizations (CROs), non-profit organizations (such as the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundations), and government agencies (such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Overall clinical trials involve collaboration among research, healthcare providers, regulatory agencies and participants, like you, to ensure that new treatment is safe and effective.
Are clinical trials only for people with serious illnesses?

No, clinical trials are not only for people with serious illnesses. Clinical trials encompass a wide range of studies that investigate new treatments, interventions, or procedures across various health conditions and diseases, including both serious illnesses, and less severe conditions or reviews standard of care practices. Clinical trials can also focus on preventive strategies, diagnostic tools, and quality-of-life improvements for individuals at different stages of health and disease. Some clinical trials may involve healthy volunteers to study basic aspects of human biology or to test the safety of new interventions before they are tested in individuals with specific health conditions. It's important to know that clinical trials are designed to advance medical knowledge, improve patient care, and enhance public health, regardless of the severity of the condition being studied. People interested, like yourself, in participating in a clinical trial should carefully review the trial's criteria and discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and if appropriate family member(s) before making a decision.
How can I find clinical trials to join?

You can find trials through government databases like ClinicalTrials.gov, research hospital websites, patient advocacy organizations, community outreach programs, or by consulting your healthcare provider. Social media and online platforms are used to recruit participants for clinical trials too.
Do clinical trials cost money?

Participating in a clinical trial as a study participant typically does not cost money. In fact, many clinical trials provide study-related medical care, tests, and investigational treatments at no cost to the participants. Additionally, some trials may even compensate participants for their time and travel expenses. However, it's important to note that while participating in a clinical trial as a study participant is usually free, there may be associated costs that are not covered by the trial sponsor. For example, participants may still be responsible for their regular medical care, non-study-related tests or treatments, and other expenses not directly related to the trial. Before enrolling in a clinical trial, it's crucial to carefully review the informed consent document provided by the research team. This document should outline any potential costs or expenses that may not be covered by the study, as well as details about what is provided at no cost to participants. If you have any concerns about the financial aspects of participating in a clinical trial, be sure to discuss them with the research team before making a decision to enroll. It's important to have a clear understanding of any potential costs or financial responsibilities before agreeing to participate in a study.
Do I get paid for participating?

Some trials may offer compensation, but this varies by study. Compensation typically covers expenses like travel or time commitment.
Will I benefit medically from participating?

Participating in a clinical trial can offer various potential medical benefits. By enrolling in a trial, you may have the opportunity to access new treatments and interventions that are not yet available to the general public. These cutting-edge treatments could potentially be more effective than standard treatments and may offer hope for improved health outcomes. Additionally, participants in clinical trials receive close monitoring and care from medical professionals throughout the study. This frequent monitoring can lead to early detection of any health issues or complications, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment. The personalized attention and care provided in a clinical trial setting can enhance your overall medical management and well-being. Furthermore, by participating in a clinical trial, you are contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and research. The data collected from the study may help researchers better understand the disease or condition being studied, leading to improved treatments and interventions for future patients. Your participation plays a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare and may have a lasting impact on the lives of others. Moreover, some participants find personal satisfaction in contributing to scientific research and potentially helping others in the future. Knowing that your involvement in a clinical trial could lead to advancements in medical science and better treatment options for individuals with similar health conditions can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. However, it's essential to recognize that not all clinical trials guarantee direct medical benefits to participants. Some trials may involve a placebo or standard treatment comparison group, where participants may not receive the investigational treatment being studied. In these cases, the primary goal of the trial is to gather scientific data to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the treatment.

Core Pillars

Measuring Impact

Tracking Diversity and Representation

It is not enough to claim that your programs and techniques are being effective - you need to show it. DHN places importance on measuring success, and uses tools and systems to ensure transparency in tracking results.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study conducted to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions, such as drugs, devices, or intervention. treatment plans, in people. Clinical trials are designed to answer specific questions about new treatments or new ways of using existing treatments. Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary, and participants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the researchers. Clinical trials are essential for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care by testing new treatments and interventions.
Who conducts clinical trials?

Clinical trials are conducted by various organizations, including pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centers (such as Universities and research institutions, contract research organizations (CROs), non-profit organizations (such as the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundations), and government agencies (such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Overall clinical trials involve collaboration among research, healthcare providers, regulatory agencies and participants, like you, to ensure that new treatment is safe and effective.
Are clinical trials only for people with serious illnesses?

No, clinical trials are not only for people with serious illnesses. Clinical trials encompass a wide range of studies that investigate new treatments, interventions, or procedures across various health conditions and diseases, including both serious illnesses, and less severe conditions or reviews standard of care practices. Clinical trials can also focus on preventive strategies, diagnostic tools, and quality-of-life improvements for individuals at different stages of health and disease. Some clinical trials may involve healthy volunteers to study basic aspects of human biology or to test the safety of new interventions before they are tested in individuals with specific health conditions. It's important to know that clinical trials are designed to advance medical knowledge, improve patient care, and enhance public health, regardless of the severity of the condition being studied. People interested, like yourself, in participating in a clinical trial should carefully review the trial's criteria and discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and if appropriate family member(s) before making a decision.
How can I find clinical trials to join?

You can find trials through government databases like ClinicalTrials.gov, research hospital websites, patient advocacy organizations, community outreach programs, or by consulting your healthcare provider. Social media and online platforms are used to recruit participants for clinical trials too.
Do clinical trials cost money?

Participating in a clinical trial as a study participant typically does not cost money. In fact, many clinical trials provide study-related medical care, tests, and investigational treatments at no cost to the participants. Additionally, some trials may even compensate participants for their time and travel expenses. However, it's important to note that while participating in a clinical trial as a study participant is usually free, there may be associated costs that are not covered by the trial sponsor. For example, participants may still be responsible for their regular medical care, non-study-related tests or treatments, and other expenses not directly related to the trial. Before enrolling in a clinical trial, it's crucial to carefully review the informed consent document provided by the research team. This document should outline any potential costs or expenses that may not be covered by the study, as well as details about what is provided at no cost to participants. If you have any concerns about the financial aspects of participating in a clinical trial, be sure to discuss them with the research team before making a decision to enroll. It's important to have a clear understanding of any potential costs or financial responsibilities before agreeing to participate in a study.
Do I get paid for participating?

Some trials may offer compensation, but this varies by study. Compensation typically covers expenses like travel or time commitment.
Will I benefit medically from participating?

Participating in a clinical trial can offer various potential medical benefits. By enrolling in a trial, you may have the opportunity to access new treatments and interventions that are not yet available to the general public. These cutting-edge treatments could potentially be more effective than standard treatments and may offer hope for improved health outcomes. Additionally, participants in clinical trials receive close monitoring and care from medical professionals throughout the study. This frequent monitoring can lead to early detection of any health issues or complications, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment. The personalized attention and care provided in a clinical trial setting can enhance your overall medical management and well-being. Furthermore, by participating in a clinical trial, you are contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and research. The data collected from the study may help researchers better understand the disease or condition being studied, leading to improved treatments and interventions for future patients. Your participation plays a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare and may have a lasting impact on the lives of others. Moreover, some participants find personal satisfaction in contributing to scientific research and potentially helping others in the future. Knowing that your involvement in a clinical trial could lead to advancements in medical science and better treatment options for individuals with similar health conditions can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. However, it's essential to recognize that not all clinical trials guarantee direct medical benefits to participants. Some trials may involve a placebo or standard treatment comparison group, where participants may not receive the investigational treatment being studied. In these cases, the primary goal of the trial is to gather scientific data to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the treatment.

Looking Forward: Our Vision for the Future

At DHN, we are always looking ahead. Our vision for the future of diverse clinical research is a world where all individuals have access to safe, effective treatments, based on equitable representation.

Measuring Success: For DHN, success looks like medical research and clinical trials that accurately reflect the true diversity of the population.

Refining Our Approaches: We never stand still. We continuously evolve our approaches, tools, and systems. We’re committed to making the vision stated above a reality through sustained effort, innovation, and collaboration.

Working Together: We recognize that we cannot achieve our immediate goals, or our long-term objectives - alone. It is only through collaboration with our partners, stakeholders and community leaders, that we can realize the vision of equitable health and wellness for all.

Request a proposal for Diversity Health NetwoRx to lead from the front or support from the back. Diversity in healthcare matters and sometimes we only have one chance to get it right. We are stronger together.

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