Equitable access to oncology clinical trials: harnessing technology to reduce geographic disparities

M Hardy-Werbin1, S González Gallardo1, J J García-Mosquera2

  • 1Trialing Health S.L., Barcelona.

ESMO Real World Data and Digital Oncology
|February 6, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Geographical disparities limit patient access to clinical trials. Streamlining trial searches improves patient referrals, with successful implementation in Spain suggesting wider potential.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical research
  • Health services research
  • Medical informatics

Background:

  • Geographical distribution of clinical trials is uneven.
  • Unequal access to clinical trials affects patient populations.
  • Inefficiencies in trial recruitment and patient referral exist.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of a trial-finding platform on patient access.
  • To assess the efficiency of patient referrals through a streamlined search process.
  • To determine the feasibility of broader implementation based on regional success.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a trial-finding platform to aggregate clinical trial information.
  • Analyzed patient referral patterns and access metrics.
  • Case study analysis of platform implementation in Spain.

Main Results:

  • The trial-finding platform significantly improved the search process for clinical trials.
  • Enhanced patient referrals were observed, addressing geographical access issues.
  • Positive outcomes in Spain indicate potential for wider adoption.

Conclusions:

  • Streamlining clinical trial discovery is crucial for equitable patient access.
  • Trial-finding platforms can overcome geographical disparities in research participation.
  • The Spanish experience provides a model for expanding trial accessibility globally.

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