Improving access to clinical trials for diverse patient populations in North Carolina

Building Hybrid Operations to Promote Equity (HOPE) and improve clinical trial access across North Carolina

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11045885

This study is looking to make it easier for people from different backgrounds, especially those in rural areas or minority groups, to join and stay in clinical trials by using local healthcare providers and digital tools, so you don’t have to travel as much to participate.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11045885 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the recruitment and retention of diverse patient populations in clinical trials by implementing hybrid decentralized clinical trials (DCTs). These trials allow local healthcare providers to conduct certain tasks, making participation more convenient for patients while reducing the need for frequent visits to trial sites. By utilizing digital health tools and leveraging established relationships between patients and local providers, the research seeks to address barriers faced by underrepresented groups, including minorities and those in rural areas. The goal is to create a more inclusive clinical trial environment that reflects the diversity of the population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from minority groups, rural communities, elderly patients, and those with limited access to healthcare resources.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of underrepresented groups or those who have easy access to traditional clinical trial sites may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more equitable access to clinical trials and improved treatment outcomes for diverse patient populations.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using hybrid decentralized clinical trials to improve diversity and access in clinical research, indicating that this approach is gaining traction.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.