Three Lessons Learned About Power and Improving Recruitment of Underrepresented Populations in Clinical Trials

This Open Forum is relevant for investigators who conduct research with historically understudied and marginalized populations. The authors introduce a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs clinical trial that experienced challenges with recruitment of African American or Black veterans and was terminated for not achieving its recruitment goals. The role of power dynamics in clinical research is discussed, specifically how unequal distributions of power may create recruitment challenges. The authors summarize three lessons learned and offer recommendations for sharing power equitably between investigators and potential participants. By recounting these experiences, the authors seek to promote culturally sensitive, veteran-centered approaches to recruitment in future clinical trials.