The 2025 SCOPE Summit brought together industry leaders to explore patient-centric approaches in clinical trials, addressing the critical issue of low enrollment rates. With 80% of trials failing to enroll on time, the summit focused on strategies to engage healthcare providers and patients effectively. Key discussions revolved around modernizing protocols, leveraging data, and fostering trust with diverse communities to enhance trial accessibility and success. The event underscored the industry’s commitment to evolving clinical research practices to serve patients better and improve trial outcomes.
Enhancing Clinical Trial Experiences
At the summit, panelists discussed strategies to improve clinical trial experiences for both sites and participants. Garo Kiledjian from SGM Alliance emphasized the need to update protocol templates to foster inclusivity, suggesting changes in language to accommodate diverse participants. This modernization aims to create more welcoming entry points for individuals, ensuring that clinical trials are accessible to all, regardless of gender identity. Such efforts are crucial in making trials more inclusive and representative of the population.
Kristen Andrews from LabCorp highlighted the company’s strategic investments to enhance patient trial access. By investing in companies like Circuit Clinical and Hawthorne Health, LabCorp aims to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, making trials more accessible and convenient. These investments leverage LabCorp’s extensive network of healthcare providers, allowing patients to engage in trials where they are most comfortable. This approach increases trial participation and ensures that trials are conducted in a patient-friendly manner.
Leveraging Data for Human-Centered Trials
The panelists underscored the importance of data in shaping study design and implementation. Garo Kiledjian pointed out the industry’s oversight in collecting data on sexual orientation and gender identity, which limits the ability to create inclusive protocols. He advocated for systematic data collection to better study designs catering to diverse populations. This data-driven approach is essential for designing protocols that are truly inclusive and representative.
Kristen Andrews shared LabCorp’s innovative use of patient service centers (PSCs) as trial sites. With over 2,000 locations across the U.S., these centers provide a convenient and trusted environment for trial participation. LabCorp is piloting initiatives that allow companies to lease space within these centers, enhancing accessibility. By enabling patients to participate in trials at familiar locations, LabCorp aims to reduce barriers and improve patient engagement, making trials more accessible to a broader population.
Future Directions and Advice for Clinical Trials
Panelists offered advice for future clinical trials, emphasizing the need to engage patients and HCPs in protocol design. Garo Kiledjian highlighted the importance of focusing on hidden populations, such as those affected by HIV, which have been underrepresented in research. The industry can capture a more diverse participant pool and improve trial outcomes by tapping into these communities. This approach ensures that trials are inclusive and representative of all communities.
Kristen Andrews advocated for innovative trial models, such as virtual trials, to reach patients in remote areas. By offering options for participation, whether through virtual means or traditional sites, the industry can better accommodate diverse needs and preferences. This flexibility is crucial for ensuring that all patients can participate in clinical trials, regardless of location or circumstances.
Motivating Participation and Building Trust
In response to audience questions, panelists explored motivators for patient participation in clinical trials. Margaret Ikpoh noted that the COVID-19 pandemic was a powerful motivator, driving patients to seek empowerment through knowledge and participation in research. This highlights the importance of addressing patient concerns and providing clear, accessible information about clinical trials.
Garo Kiledjian emphasized the need for safe spaces for marginalized communities, who may fear engaging with healthcare systems due to historical mistrust. He highlighted the importance of creating pathways that allow these communities to participate in trials without fear of discrimination. By fostering trust and building relationships, the industry can overcome barriers to participation and ensure that trials are genuinely inclusive.
Summary
The SCOPE Summit 2025 highlighted the industry’s commitment to patient-centric clinical trials, emphasizing the need for inclusivity, data-driven design, and trust-building with diverse communities. By addressing barriers to participation and leveraging innovative models, the industry can improve trial outcomes and ensure that new treatments reach those who need them most. The panel discussion was a call to action for continued innovation and collaboration in pursuing more inclusive and practical clinical research.
Moe Alsumidaie is Chief Editor of The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Moe holds decades of experience in the clinical trials industry. Moe also serves as Head of Research at CliniBiz and Chief Data Scientist at Annex Clinical Corporation.
