Despite significant advances in medical research, many populations remain underrepresented in clinical trials, creating critical evidence gaps that impact the generalizability, safety, and effectiveness of new therapies. This session will explore the scientific, operational, regulatory, and ethical imperatives for improving representation in clinical research, with a particular focus on historically underserved and underrepresented communities, including Native American and Indigenous populations, rural communities, racial and ethnic minorities, older adults, and other populations frequently excluded from research.
Attendees will examine the root causes of participation disparities, including barriers related to trust, access, study design, site selection, and operational execution. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, speakers will discuss how sponsors, CROs, sites, investigators, and community partners can work together to develop more inclusive clinical trial programs that generate stronger evidence and improve health outcomes for all populations. Participants will leave with actionable approaches to embed inclusive practices across the clinical development lifecycle while meeting evolving regulatory expectations and advancing scientific excellence.