Bridging the Participation Gap in Oncology Trials through Community Based Approach

FutureMeds
Oct 17
2 min read

Why community-based, patient-centric research models could redefine access to cancer clinical trials

For decades, participation in oncology clinical trials has remained strikingly low. Despite rapid advances in targeted therapies, only 2–8% of eligible patients take part in cancer studies worldwide.

This underrepresentation affects everyone. Patients miss out on potential treatment options. Oncologists struggle to integrate research into everyday care due to system constraints. Sponsors face longer recruitment timelines and limited real-world applicability for new therapies.

The problem is not a lack of interest. Studies suggest many patients are open to clinical trial participation, but awareness, access, and logistical barriers persist. The path from diagnosis to trial enrollment remains complex and often centralised in major hospitals or academic centres, leaving large parts of the population underserved.

Rethinking the model

At FutureMeds, we see a clear opportunity to complement traditional hospital-based trials with a community-based, patient-centric engagement model.

Our approach integrates decentralised trial (DCT) elements into dedicated research clinics located closer to where patients live and receive care. The goal is to make participation easier and more representative, ensuring that geography, time, and system complexity do not dictate who can access innovation.

This model is designed to:

Build trusted local oncology communities offering patients alternative treatment pathways.
Support oncologists with streamlined processes, digital tools, and trial awareness.
Reach more diverse patient populations to bridge the efficacy–effectiveness gap.
Enable participation in familiar environments, improving comfort and compliance.
Integrate DCT components such as home visits and remote monitoring, where appropriate.

Early results from our oncology sites suggest that this approach supports faster recruitment, higher engagement, and comparable safety and compliance to hospital-based settings.

The broader conversation at ESMO 2025

These themes are expected to be central to the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2025, taking place 17–21 October in Berlin. The congress brings together clinicians, researchers, and industry experts to share discoveries and discuss structural innovations that could improve access to care and research.

FutureMeds will be represented by Nachiket Chandak, Senior Business Development Director, who aims to engage with oncology leaders on practical ways to broaden participation in trials and integrate decentralised elements into existing research frameworks.

Shaping a more accessible future

The goal is not to replace hospital-based research but to expand its reach. By embedding oncology trials within community settings, supported by strong partnerships, trained staff, and streamlined technology, more patients can access clinical studies when time matters most.

The next breakthrough may not only come from a new therapy alone but also from a new way of delivering access to those therapies. Access our whitepaper to learn more about FutureMeds oncology approach here