Thesis
Diversity in clinical trials and addressing participant concerns and fears: how can digital tools and user-centered design be leveraged to improve diversity in clinical trial recruitment
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
May 2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011371
Abstract
Diversity in clinical trials is critical to ensuring that medical treatments are safe and effective for all population groups. Clinical trials, historically, have been plagued by the underrepresentation of minority populations, including racial and ethnic groups. This situation can lead to adverse treatment outcomes. Barriers like restrictive eligibility criteria, lack of outreach, and systemic inequities in healthcare access have contributed to these gaps. Additionally, this underrepresentation results in biases within medical findings and treatments, potentially leaving certain populations at risk of receiving less effective or unsuitable care. My research asks: How can UX design strategies improve diversity in clinical trial recruitment? It seeks to identify the barriers that prevent these populations from participating in clinical trials, like restrictive eligibility criteria, lack of outreach, fear and mistrust in medical systems, and systemic inequities in healthcare access. Through user research, stakeholder interviews, and analysis of historical materials, I explored how cultural cues, trust, and access impact engagement. I faced challenges that included limited data access and confronting institutional norms. However, this did not limit my discovery of powerful insights into the emotional barriers to participation. My research offers a practical framework for inclusive design in recruitment--covering language, visuals, trust-building, and community involvement. These strategies can be applied across trial recruitment to improve equity and outcomes.
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Details
- Title
- Diversity in clinical trials and addressing participant concerns and fears
- Creators
- Kate Potyomkina
- Contributors
- Diana S. Nicholas (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University
- Number of pages
- 44 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Architecture, Design, and Urbanism; Design Research; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991022182270404721