Developing a clinical research associate training program at Dillard University: the impact of collaboration

Area of Science:

• Health Disparities Research
• Clinical Trials
• Minority Health

Background:

• Dillard University and Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center established a Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Center (MHHDRC) in 2010.
• The MHHDRC is the first federally funded Center of Excellence in Louisiana, focusing on reducing health disparities.
• A key component of the MHHDRC is a clinical research associate (CRA) training program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase the number of minority CRAs in Louisiana, particularly in New Orleans.
• To enhance minority participation and retention in clinical trials research.
• To detail the establishment, operation, and impact of the CRA training program within the MHHDRC.

Main Methods:

• Collaboration between Dillard University and Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center.
• Securing a five-year grant from the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities.
• Development and implementation of a clinical research associate (CRA) training program.
• Community outreach and integration of multiple resources.

Main Results:

• Successful establishment of the first federally funded Center of Excellence for Minority Health and Health Disparities in Louisiana.
• Initiation of a CRA training program designed to increase minority representation in clinical research.
• Facilitation of greater minority participation and retention in clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• The collaborative effort successfully launched a vital research center and training program.
• The CRA training program is crucial for addressing minority underrepresentation in clinical trials.
• Future plans aim to sustain and expand the impact of the MHHDRC and its initiatives.