Improving the informed consent process for clinical trials

Sustainable Solutions to Translating Best Practices for Informed Consent

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10917307

This study is working to make the consent process for clinical trials clearer and easier to understand, especially for people from different backgrounds, including older adults and those living in rural areas, so that everyone can feel comfortable and informed when deciding whether to participate.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10917307 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the informed consent process used in clinical trials, which often confuses potential participants due to complex language and repetitive information. By engaging with stakeholders, the team will develop and test a new consent template that is easier to understand and implement. The project will utilize mixed-methods to ensure that the new process is feasible and meets the needs of diverse populations, including racially minoritized groups, rural residents, and older adults. A community advisory board will be involved throughout the project to ensure alignment with community needs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals from racially minoritized populations, rural areas, and older adults who may face challenges in understanding traditional informed consent forms.

Not a fit: Patients who are already well-versed in clinical trial processes or those who do not require informed consent for participation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more accessible and understandable informed consent process, increasing participation in clinical trials among underrepresented populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that simplifying informed consent processes can improve understanding and participation, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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 2026-06-09 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.