

-
Introduction: The Evolving Landscape of Clinical Research and the Role of Mobile Units
Clinical research, the cornerstone of medical advancement, has historically faced significant hurdles in its pursuit of developing effective therapies and interventions. Traditional models, often reliant on centralized research facilities, have encountered challenges in participant recruitment, particularly among diverse populations, and have sometimes struggled with logistical complexities that can impede the progress of vital studies. These limitations can affect the representativeness of trial data and the overall efficiency of the research process. In response to these challenges, innovative approaches have emerged, with mobile research and education units playing an increasingly pivotal role. These units, often the result of collaborative efforts between pharmaceutical clinical research companies, academic institutions, community organizations, and non-profits, represent a paradigm shift in how clinical research is conducted and disseminated. By taking research directly to communities, these mobile platforms aim to break down barriers to participation, enhance public understanding of the research process, and ultimately contribute to more inclusive and impactful medical discoveries. The increasing prevalence of these initiatives underscores a growing recognition within the clinical research ecosystem of the limitations inherent in traditional site-based trials, especially when striving to reach underserved populations and achieve health equity.1 The experiences gained during the recent pandemic further highlighted the necessity for adaptable and accessible methods to conduct research and engage with communities, potentially accelerating the adoption and recognition of mobile units as a crucial component of modern clinical research.3
-
Enhancing Access and Inclusivity in Clinical Trials: Reaching Diverse Populations Through Mobile Research Units
A primary advantage of mobile research units lies in their ability to overcome geographical barriers that often hinder participation in clinical trials, particularly for individuals residing in rural or underserved communities.1 Historically, clinical trials have been concentrated in specific geographic locations, often near major medical centers, which can effectively exclude individuals who lack the means or ability to travel to these sites. This disproportionately affects rural populations, minority groups, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status.1 Organizations like Ark Clinical Research explicitly designed their mobile unit to increase accessibility and diversity by bringing the trial directly to participants, rather than requiring them to visit a research site.1 Similarly, Lightship emphasizes "Accessibility Without Limits" as a core benefit of their Mobile Research Units, eliminating the need for travel and providing a trusted alternative to home visits.2 Eli Lilly also utilizes mobile research units to reach more people and include greater diversity within their trials by meeting patients within their own communities.3 The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust in the UK has deployed a mobile research unit to bring clinical trials to Cornwall's remote, coastal, and underserved communities, directly addressing geographical barriers to research participation.9 University Hospitals in Ohio launched their mobile research unit with the explicit goal of expanding access to clinical research studies and trials to underserved areas across their region, including rural and underrepresented communities.10
Beyond overcoming geographical obstacles, mobile units significantly reduce the burden of participation by eliminating the need for participants to take time off work, arrange transportation, and incur associated costs such as parking and fuel.1 EMS Healthcare highlights that mobile clinics alleviate these financial burdens, thereby promoting diversity in trial participation by ensuring individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds have an equal opportunity to take part.6 The flexibility offered by mobile units aligns with the growing trend of decentralized clinical trials (DCTs), which aim to conduct trial-related activities remotely at locations convenient for participants.1 Ark Clinical Research's mobile unit, for instance, allows for key trial procedures like blood draws, sample collections, and monitoring to be conducted outside of traditional medical settings.1 Lightship's MRUs are also designed to be regulatory-ready for decentralized trials, offering a streamlined approach to conducting research in community settings.2 This shift towards bringing research to the participant signifies a fundamental change in the clinical trial paradigm, driven by a commitment to greater inclusivity and a recognition that traditional models often inadvertently exclude significant portions of the population. This proactive approach to enhancing access for diverse populations through mobile research units demonstrates a strong commitment within the clinical research industry to address health equity and ensure that the benefits of medical advancements are realized by all segments of society. The collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and specialized providers of mobile research solutions further amplifies these efforts, allowing for efficient and effective outreach to underserved communities.
Sponsoring Organization(s) |
Geographical Area(s) Served |
Target Population(s) |
Stated Goal Regarding Accessibility |
Ark Clinical Research |
Long Beach, California |
Underserved communities, rural populations, minorities, lower-income groups |
Increase accessibility and diversity in clinical research for underserved communities |
Lightship |
UK and US |
General population, with a focus on making participation simpler and more inclusive |
Bring clinical trials directly to communities, eliminating travel and increasing accessibility |
Eli Lilly and Company |
Not specified |
General population, with a focus on increasing diversity in trials |
Reach more people with clinical trials and include more diversity by meeting them where they are |
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Moderna, EMS Healthcare |
Cornwall, UK (remote and coastal areas) |
Underserved and remote communities |
Break down barriers to health and care research participation by bringing clinical trials directly to these communities |
University Hospitals |
Northeast Ohio (rural areas, underrepresented communities) |
Rural areas, underrepresented racial and ethnic communities, those unable to travel |
Expand access to clinical research studies and trials to underserved areas across the region |
West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute (WVCTSI) |
Rural West Virginia |
Rural residents |
Address underrepresentation of rural populations in clinical trials by bringing research directly to them |
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) |
Rural Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi |
Rural communities |
Bring medical care and research opportunities to rural areas lacking access to research hospitals and clinics |
-
Empowering Communities Through Education: The Impact of Mobile Education Units on Clinical Research Awareness
Mobile education units serve as vital tools for increasing awareness and understanding of clinical research within communities, particularly those that have historically been underrepresented in such endeavors.2 These units actively engage community members, providing them with information about the clinical research process, the potential benefits of participation, and the crucial role of diverse representation in ensuring that medical advancements are effective for everyone. Lightship, for example, emphasizes community outreach and engagement as a fundamental aspect of their Mobile Research Unit services, partnering with local organizations to build trust and educate communities about clinical trials.2 Their efforts have resulted in significant engagement, with over 16,200 individuals interacting with their MRUs at community events and receiving education on clinical research.2 Eli Lilly also highlights that their mobile research units provide education about the value of participation in clinical trials, aiming to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the research process within the communities they serve.3
Furthermore, mobile education units play a crucial role in addressing misconceptions and building trust, especially in communities that may harbor historical wariness towards clinical research due to past injustices.1 Ark Clinical Research recognizes the importance of strengthening ties with local communities and building trust, particularly in those with a history of underrepresentation in clinical trials.1 Their mobile unit facilitates community outreach events and educational initiatives to create accessible entry points for individuals to learn about and get involved in clinical research.1 EMS Healthcare believes that mobile sites foster trust by establishing ongoing relationships with communities and by demonstrating sensitivity to language preferences and cultural practices.6 AstraZeneca is actively partnering with local patient and community groups to meet individuals where they are, with the explicit goal of building trust and encouraging increased communication and enrollment in their trials.4 The "Journey to Better Health" Mobile Education Exhibit by CISCRP directly addresses the issue of mistrust by discussing historical injustices and mistreatments that have contributed to underrepresentation in clinical trials.19 By providing this context, the exhibit aims to foster a more informed and trusting relationship between researchers and communities.
Mobile units often serve as platforms for health screenings and other community outreach events, providing accessible entry points for individuals to learn about clinical research in a relevant context.1 Ark Clinical Research includes health screenings as part of their community outreach efforts.1 IMA Research organized screening events at various community settings, including health fairs and community centers, using their Mobile Research Units to make research opportunities more transparent and accessible.7 CNS Healthcare utilizes their mobile unit to provide health screenings and patient education at no cost in rural and underrepresented communities, demonstrating a commitment to both immediate health needs and long-term research engagement.14 This integration of health services with research education can be a highly effective way to engage communities, build rapport, and increase awareness about the importance of clinical research.
Organization |
Community Engagement Strategies |
Reported Outcomes in Awareness or Trust-Building |
Lightship |
Partnering with local organizations, conducting community events, providing educational materials, hands-on engagement by staff. |
Interacted with over 16,200 individuals at 36 community events, educating them on clinical research. |
CISCRP ("Journey to Better Health" Mobile Exhibit) |
Visiting urban community events with an interactive educational exhibit, guided tours by community educators and staff, addressing historical reasons for mistrust, providing information on getting involved. |
Positively impacted visitors' general understanding of clinical research terms, with the percentage reporting a strong understanding nearly doubling after visiting the exhibit. 89% of visitors reported being "Somewhat" or "Very Interested" in learning more about clinical research after the exhibit. |
EMS Healthcare |
Establishing ongoing relationships with communities, accommodating language preferences and cultural practices, working with local faith leaders and community figures to embrace cultural sensitivities, dispelling misconceptions through strong personal connections. |
Believes mobile sites foster trust by making participants feel respected and better understood. |
AstraZeneca (AIRE Mobile Unit) |
Partnering with local patient and community groups to meet patients where they are, aiming to build trust to encourage increased communication and enrollment. |
Aims to increase patient access to trials, improve diversity, raise disease state awareness, and solidify the importance of clinical trials in underrepresented communities by meeting patients in their neighborhoods and removing burdensome pre-screening processes. |
Fenway Health |
Deploying a mobile unit to communities with difficulty reaching their main site, using the visibility of the mobile unit to amplify existing community resources. |
Used a mobile unit to engage with the community and offer them clinical trials, building trust and security for continued engagement. |
University of Chicago (IPPH) |
Spending a year developing relationships with community-based partners and ambassadors before deploying mobile units in neighborhoods. |
Aims to lay the groundwork for a new community-based research model that helps retain participants and ensures that communities historically underrepresented in biomedical research are represented in newer programs. |
-
Synergistic Collaborations: Examining Successful Partnerships Driving Mobile Research and Education Initiatives
The successful operation of mobile research and education units often relies on strong, multi-sector partnerships that leverage the unique strengths and resources of various stakeholders.4 Collaborations between pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, community organizations, and non-profits are instrumental in driving these initiatives forward. A notable example is the partnership between the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the UK Vaccine Innovation Pathway (VIP), pharmaceutical company Moderna, and EMS Healthcare (the mobile unit provider).9 This collaboration aims to improve clinical trial accessibility and efficiency in Cornwall by bringing a mobile research unit to underserved communities for a norovirus vaccine trial. Boehringer Ingelheim has partnered with Walgreens and EmVenio Research to utilize select Walgreens community pharmacies and EmVenio's mobile research units to improve access to their Phase III clinical trial for people living with obesity, overweight, and type 2 diabetes.5 AstraZeneca is collaborating directly with local patient and community groups for their AIRE Mobile Unit initiative, focusing on meeting patients where they are to build trust and encourage participation in their trials.4 The University of Chicago's Institute for Population and Precision Health (IPPH) developed relationships with community-based partners and ambassadors to effectively deploy their mobile research units in South Side communities, aiming to enhance diversity in their research programs.25 Penn State College of Medicine has established an academic-community partnership with the national non-profit Asian Health Coalition to create a center focused on reducing health disparities and improving health literacy in underserved populations.26 Fenway Health collaborated with AstraZeneca to deploy a mobile health unit for their COVID-19 vaccine trial, reaching communities that had difficulty accessing their main facility.13 Furthermore, non-profit organizations like CISCRP, which focuses on public and patient engagement in clinical research, receive support from pharmaceutical companies like BMS for their "Journey to Better Health" mobile education exhibit, highlighting the industry's role in supporting educational outreach.20
These multi-sector partnerships offer numerous benefits, including the pooling of resources, the sharing of diverse expertise, and the leveraging of established community reach.4 Pharmaceutical companies often provide the necessary funding and the research protocols for the clinical trials conducted through mobile units. Academic institutions contribute their research expertise, infrastructure, and often have established connections within local communities that can be invaluable for recruitment and engagement.23 For example, the University of Chicago's IPPH leverages its academic research capabilities while actively engaging with community partners to ensure their mobile units are effective in reaching and serving the target populations.25 Penn State's partnership with the Asian Health Coalition combines the university's research infrastructure with the non-profit's experience in community engagement to address health disparities.26 Community organizations bring crucial insights into the specific needs and cultural nuances of the populations being served, helping to build trust and facilitate local engagement. Non-profit organizations often have established networks and experience in patient advocacy and public education, playing a vital role in ensuring that research is patient-centered and that communities are well-informed about the process and their rights.19 Providers of mobile research units, such as EMS Healthcare and EmVenio Research, offer the specialized vehicles and the logistical support necessary for operating these mobile facilities effectively.5 The increasing involvement of universities in these partnerships underscores their critical role in driving innovation and ensuring the scientific rigor of mobile research initiatives, bringing research expertise, ethical oversight, and often established community connections to these efforts. Similarly, the participation of non-profit organizations highlights the growing emphasis on patient advocacy and public education in clinical research, ensuring that research is patient-centered and that communities are well-informed.
Involved Organizations |
Primary Objectives of the Partnership |
Reported Successes or Outcomes |
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, NIHR, UK Vaccine Innovation Pathway, Moderna, EMS Healthcare |
Improve clinical trial accessibility and efficiency in Cornwall |
Bringing a mobile research unit to underserved communities for a norovirus vaccine trial, overcoming geographical barriers, increasing research opportunities in areas with historically low participation. |
Boehringer Ingelheim, Walgreens, EmVenio Research |
Improve access to a Phase III clinical trial for obesity, overweight, and type 2 diabetes |
Leveraging pharmacy clinical trial centers and mobile research units to dismantle barriers, improve access, and address health representation in clinical trials. |
AstraZeneca, Local patient and community groups |
Increase patient access to trials, improve diversity, raise disease state awareness, solidify the importance of clinical trials in underrepresented communities |
Meeting patients in their neighborhoods with the AIRE Mobile Unit to build trust, encourage communication and enrollment, gather more inclusive data. |
University of Chicago (IPPH), Community-based partners and ambassadors |
Recruit and enroll participants from South Side communities in All of Us and COMPASS trials, address health and cancer disparities |
Bringing precision health programs directly to residents in their neighborhoods, aiming to retain participants and ensure representation of historically underrepresented communities. |
Penn State College of Medicine, Asian Health Coalition (non-profit) |
Reduce cancer health disparities and improve health literacy in cardiovascular health, cancer, and diabetes for minority, underserved, and rural populations |
Establishing an academic-community partnership to leverage Penn State's research capacity and the Asian Health Coalition's community engagement expertise to address health disparities. |
Fenway Health, AstraZeneca |
Reach communities that had difficulty accessing Fenway Health's main site for a COVID-19 vaccine trial |
Deploying a mobile unit to Lynn, MA, to uplift and amplify existing community resources and offer clinical trial participation. |
CISCRP (non-profit), BMS (pharmaceutical) |
Bring clinical research information directly to local communities through the "Journey to Better Health" initiative |
Raising awareness about the importance of clinical research participation in diverse, underrepresented communities through a traveling educational exhibit. |
-
Optimizing Clinical Trial Participation: Mobile Units and Their Contribution to Improved Recruitment and Retention
The convenience and accessibility offered by mobile research units have a significant positive impact on patient recruitment rates, particularly among diverse populations who may face barriers to participating in traditional site-based trials.1 By bringing the clinical trial site directly to communities, mobile units overcome logistical and geographical obstacles that might otherwise prevent individuals from participating. Lightship highlights that their MRUs streamline pre-screening and lead to efficient recruitment.2 Their community engagement events have resulted in a notable number of pre-screened individuals and referrals to study sites.2 IMA Research reported improved recruitment and engagement in clinical trials by utilizing MRUs to reach underserved communities and organizing screening events in familiar local settings.7 The implementation of the Mobile Recruitment (MoRe) concept, which utilizes mobile technology and unconventional recruitment locations, demonstrated a substantial increase in enrollment for a high-volume observational cohort study.32
Furthermore, mobile units play a crucial role in improving patient retention rates by reducing the burden of participation and making follow-up visits more manageable.1 Ark Clinical Research notes that conducting trial-related activities remotely through their mobile unit can significantly decrease participant burden, enabling them to remain engaged in the study for a longer duration.1 EMS Healthcare suggests that the flexibility of the mobile delivery model can enhance data collection by offering participants greater choice and convenience, thereby reducing the likelihood of dropouts and missed appointments.6 The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust utilizes their mobile unit specifically for follow-up trial visits, ensuring that participants in remote areas can remain engaged in the trial without the need for long and difficult journeys to the hospital.9 The success of the TOPAZ trial for Parkinson's disease, which employed innovative techniques including mobile research nurses, demonstrates how bringing research closer to patients can ensure enrollment targets are met and patient participation is boosted.17 Similarly, Lightship's use of MRUs in a rare disease dermatology study resulted in successful pre-screening and referral rates, indicating improved patient engagement throughout the initial stages of the trial.2 These examples underscore the effectiveness of mobile units in not only attracting participants but also in supporting their continued involvement in clinical research studies.
-
Fostering Stronger Research-Community Bonds: Building Trust and Engagement via Mobile Platforms
The presence of mobile research units within communities serves as a powerful tool for building trust and rapport between researchers and community members.1 By establishing a physical presence in familiar local settings, these units create opportunities for direct interaction and dialogue, fostering a sense of connection and understanding between researchers and the people they aim to serve. Ark Clinical Research emphasizes their commitment to strengthening ties with local communities and building trust, particularly in communities that have historically been wary of participating in clinical trials.1 Lightship highlights the importance of trusted community partnerships in fostering awareness and participation in clinical research.2 EMS Healthcare believes that mobile sites foster trust by establishing ongoing relationships with community members and by demonstrating respect for their language preferences and cultural practices.6 AstraZeneca is actively partnering with local patient and community groups for their AIRE Mobile Unit, aiming to meet patients where they are and build trust to encourage increased communication and enrollment.4 The University of Chicago's IPPH recognized the importance of community relationships, spending a year developing partnerships with community-based organizations and ambassadors before launching their mobile research units in South Side neighborhoods.25 The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) aims to engage with community stakeholders and ensure a partnership-based approach with the communities they serve through their Mobile Clinical Research Unit.33
Community outreach and educational initiatives conducted through mobile units are instrumental in fostering engagement.1 Lightship's MRU services include community outreach and engagement as a key component, leading to significant interactions and the education of thousands of individuals about clinical research.2 CISCRP's "Journey to Better Health" mobile exhibit is specifically designed for community outreach, providing an interactive and accessible way for people to learn about clinical research.19 Fox Chase Cancer Center employs lay community ambassadors to disseminate information about clinical trials within their networks and holds community dialogues featuring researchers and trial participants to foster understanding and engagement.24
Cultural sensitivity and tailoring communication to the specific needs of different communities are paramount in building trust and ensuring effective engagement.4 EMS Healthcare emphasizes the importance of accommodating language preferences and respecting cultural practices and beliefs to make participants feel respected and better understood.6 IMA Research actively works with public health and community-based partners to provide quality, equitable, and culturally responsive care.7 AstraZeneca's partnership approach with local groups is intended to meet patients where they are, taking into account the specific needs and context of each community.4 CISCRP prioritizes making their educational content easy to understand, unbiased, non-promotional, culturally sensitive, and relevant for the communities they connect with.35 By demonstrating cultural awareness and adapting their communication strategies, researchers utilizing mobile units can build stronger, more trusting relationships with community members, ultimately leading to more meaningful and representative research participation.
Strategy |
Example from Snippets |
Impact on Trust and Engagement |
Community Outreach Events |
Ark Clinical Research 1 conducts outreach events, health screenings, and educational initiatives. |
Creates accessible entry points for learning and involvement, fostering familiarity and trust. |
Partnerships with Local Organizations |
Lightship 2 partners with local organizations to build trust and raise awareness. AstraZeneca 4 partners with local patient and community groups. |
Leverages existing community networks and trusted figures, enhancing credibility and reach. |
Addressing Historical Mistrust |
CISCRP 19 discusses past injustices to provide context and build trust. |
Acknowledges sensitive issues, fostering transparency and understanding. |
Cultural Sensitivity |
EMS Healthcare 6 accommodates language preferences and cultural practices. IMA Research 7 provides culturally responsive care. |
Makes participants feel respected and understood, increasing comfort and willingness to engage. |
Lay Community Ambassadors |
Fox Chase Cancer Center 24 trains community members to disseminate information. |
Utilizes trusted voices within the community to promote research and address concerns. |
Meeting People Where They Are |
AstraZeneca 4 and Lightship 2 bring research directly to neighborhoods and community events. |
Increases convenience and demonstrates a commitment to accessibility, fostering a more positive perception of research. |
-
Streamlining Research Operations: Logistical and Operational Advantages of Using Mobile Units for Conducting Clinical Research in Various Settings
Mobile research units offer significant logistical and operational advantages for conducting clinical research across diverse geographical locations and in non-traditional settings.1 Their inherent mobility allows researchers to reach populations that might otherwise be inaccessible to traditional research sites. University Hospitals, for instance, launched their mobile research unit to expand access to underserved areas, including rural communities, and to reach individuals who may have difficulty traveling, such as senior patients and students on college campuses.10 The West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute's (WVCTSI) MAVERICK unit is specifically designed to navigate the challenging terrains of rural West Virginia, ensuring that cutting-edge trials can reach the communities that need them most.15 Similarly, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) utilizes a mobile clinic to conduct research in rural communities across several Southern states, bringing medical care and research opportunities to areas lacking proximity to major research centers.16
These mobile units are often equipped to perform a wide range of clinical trial activities on-site, streamlining the research process and reducing the need for participants to travel to centralized facilities for various procedures.1 Lightship's Mobile Research Units are fully equipped to collect biospecimen samples, store investigational medicinal products (IMPs) under secure and temperature-controlled conditions, conduct electrocardiograms (ECGs), monitor vital signs, and perform physical examinations, essentially bringing the full capabilities of a clinical research site directly to participants.2 The mobile unit operated by the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust features an ultra-low temperature freezer for storing biological samples and a tabletop centrifuge, enabling all trial-related follow-up activities to be carried out on board.9 University Hospitals' mobile research unit includes two private exam rooms with standard clinical equipment and a laboratory processing center with centrifuges and refrigeration capabilities for time-sensitive sample processing.11 WVCTSI's MAVERICK unit is equipped with two private patient exam rooms and a lab area for drawing and processing patient samples.15 CNS Healthcare's mobile health and clinical research unit features two private, state-of-the-art exam rooms and CLIA-waived lab capabilities, allowing them to conduct health screenings and patient education in various community settings.14
Operating mobile units does involve specific logistical considerations, such as obtaining necessary permits and ensuring adequate staffing and equipment maintenance.11 As noted by Clinical Trials Arena, it is important to ensure that mobile units comply with the legal requirements of the locations where they operate and may require additional licensure if used for different sites.17 University Hospitals highlights the availability of continuous power through diesel generators and shore power hookups, as well as secure Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, which are crucial for seamless data management and the operation of medical equipment.11 Careful planning and coordination are essential to address these logistical aspects and ensure the smooth and compliant conduct of clinical research using mobile units.
Function |
Equipment/Capabilities |
Example from Snippets |
Examination |
Private exam rooms, clinical exam tables, procedure chairs, Welch Allyn Wall Kits |
University Hospitals 11, WVCTSI 15, CNS Healthcare 14 |
Sample Processing |
Ambient/refrigerated centrifuges, refrigerators, freezers (-20 to -80 degrees), ultra-low temperature freezers |
University Hospitals 11, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust 9, WVCTSI 15 |
Diagnostics & Monitoring |
ECG machines, vital signs monitoring equipment |
Lightship 2 |
IMP Storage |
Secure and temperature-controlled storage |
Lightship 2 |
Accessibility |
Wheelchair lifts, mobility ramps |
University Hospitals 11, Lightship 2 |
Connectivity & Power |
Diesel generators, shore power hookups, secure WiFi and Ethernet networks |
University Hospitals 11 |
Patient Comfort & Privacy |
Waiting areas, private bathrooms |
Lightship 2, WVCTSI 15, CNS Healthcare 14 |
-
Economic Considerations: Evaluating Cost Savings and Efficiency Gains from Mobile Research Units
The utilization of mobile research units in clinical trials presents the potential for both cost savings and increased efficiency compared to traditional site-based approaches.17 According to Mobile Health Map, a mobile health clinic analytics firm, the average return on investment for mobile health is reported to be 12:1, indicating significant potential cost savings.18 These savings are attributed to the ability of mobile health clinics to provide accessible care, which can lead to a reduction in emergency department visits and hospitalizations over time.18 While this figure encompasses a broader range of mobile health services, it suggests the potential for substantial economic benefits in the context of clinical trials as well. The TOPAZ trial for Parkinson's disease demonstrated that the adoption of decentralized clinical trial methods, including mobile research nurses, contributed to reduced project costs.17
Increased efficiency in both recruitment and data collection is another key economic advantage offered by mobile units.1 By bringing research directly to communities, mobile units can expand the pool of potential participants and streamline the enrollment process. Lightship highlights that their MRUs facilitate streamlined pre-screening and recruitment, leading to more efficient enrollment.2 EMS Healthcare suggests that the flexibility of mobile units can enhance data collection and potentially reduce delays associated with slow enrollment in traditional settings.6 The Mobile Recruitment (MoRe) concept demonstrated a significant increase in enrollment rates through the use of mobile technology and unconventional recruitment locations, indicating a more efficient approach to participant acquisition.32 Furthermore, decentralized mobile clinical trials can improve digital workflows, allowing patients to schedule and track their participation through online portals, potentially reducing administrative overhead and improving overall trial management.18 While some sources indicate that achieving a more diverse population might initially involve higher costs or longer timelines 17, the long-term benefits of more representative data and potentially improved patient outcomes could ultimately lead to greater cost-effectiveness.
-
Achieving Representative Research: The Role of Mobile Units in Enhancing Diversity in Clinical Trial Participants
A critical contribution of mobile research units is their ability to improve access to clinical trials for underrepresented racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, thereby enhancing the diversity of participant populations.1 By overcoming geographical and logistical barriers, mobile units make it easier for individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate in research, ensuring that clinical trial outcomes are applicable to a wider range of patients. The strategic deployment of mobile units to specific communities can directly address disparities in research participation. For example, Clinical Trials Arena suggests that mobile sites could be located in areas with a higher prevalence of specific diseases, such as Lyme disease in certain parts of the UK, to facilitate targeted screening and treatment.17 The University of Chicago's IPPH specifically targets South Side communities with their mobile research units to address existing health and cancer disparities, aiming to ensure that their research participant pool reflects the diversity of the city's population.25
The inclusion of diverse participants in clinical trials is essential to ensure the generalizability and effectiveness of new treatments across different populations.1 Ark Clinical Research emphasizes that reaching a more diverse participant base through their mobile unit enhances the quality and relevance of clinical trial data, ensuring that findings are applicable to a wider array of individuals.1 Eli Lilly underscores that diverse representation in clinical trials is crucial for ensuring that new medicines work for the greatest number of people, as individuals from different age groups, sexes, races, and ethnicities may respond to treatments differently.3 AstraZeneca also highlights the imperative of conducting research among a representative sample of individuals within each disease area being studied to account for these variations in treatment response.4 By actively working to enhance diversity in clinical trial participation through the use of mobile research units, the clinical research industry is striving to develop more effective and equitable healthcare solutions for all.
Target Demographic |
Geographical Location |
Disease Area (if specified) |
Reported Increase in Participation |
Rural populations, minorities, lower-income groups |
Long Beach, California (Ark Clinical Research) |
Metabolic, CNS, Vaccines |
Stated goal to increase accessibility and diversity |
Underserved communities |
UK and US (Lightship) |
Rare disease dermatology |
Engaged with over 16,200 individuals at community events |
General population, with focus on diversity |
Not specified (Eli Lilly) |
COVID-19 initially |
Aims to include more diversity in clinical trials |
Remote, coastal, underserved communities |
Cornwall, UK (Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust) |
Norovirus |
Bringing research to areas with historically low participation |
Rural areas, underrepresented racial and ethnic communities |
Northeast Ohio (University Hospitals) |
Cancer, heart disease, infectious disease, pandemics |
Goal to expand opportunities for participation in underserved areas |
Rural West Virginia |
West Virginia (WVCTSI) |
General |
Addressing underrepresentation of rural populations |
Rural communities |
Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi (UAB) |
Heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders |
Aiming to include historically excluded rural residents |
South Side communities |
Chicago, Illinois (University of Chicago) |
General, including cancer |
Aiming to ensure representation of historically underrepresented communities |
-
Conclusion and Future Directions: The Sustained Impact of Mobile Research and Education Units on Clinical Research
Mobile research and education units represent a significant advancement in the field of clinical research, offering innovative solutions to long-standing challenges related to accessibility, inclusivity, and community engagement.1 Their ability to overcome geographical and socioeconomic barriers has proven crucial in reaching diverse populations and ensuring that clinical trials are more representative of the patients who will ultimately benefit from new medical treatments. By bringing research directly to communities, these mobile platforms not only enhance recruitment and retention rates but also foster stronger, more trusting relationships between researchers and the public. The educational component of these initiatives plays a vital role in increasing awareness and understanding of the clinical research process, addressing misconceptions, and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about participation. The collaborative nature of these endeavors, involving pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, community organizations, and non-profits, underscores a collective commitment to advancing health equity and improving patient outcomes.
Looking towards the future, the potential for further advancements and wider adoption of mobile research and education units is substantial. As technology continues to evolve, these units can be equipped with even more sophisticated diagnostic tools, telemedicine capabilities, and data management systems, further enhancing their ability to conduct complex research studies directly within communities. The integration of digital health solutions with mobile platforms will likely play a key role in streamlining operations, improving data collection, and enhancing the overall participant experience. The ongoing need for strong partnerships and collaborations will be essential to maximize the impact of these mobile initiatives, leveraging the diverse expertise and resources of all stakeholders. The alignment of these efforts with broader government priorities for healthcare accessibility and research infrastructure suggests a supportive environment for the continued growth and innovation in this field.9 Ultimately, mobile research and education units are poised to play an increasingly central role in shaping the future of clinical research, paving the way for more inclusive, efficient, and impactful medical discoveries that benefit all members of society.
Works cited
-
Ark Clinical Research's New Mobile Unit: Pioneering Decentralized ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241105943736/en/Ark-Clinical-Researchs-New-Mobile-Unit-Pioneering-Decentralized-Clinical-Research-Continued-Focus-on-Diversity
-
Mobile Research Unit | Lightship, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.lightship.com/mobile-research-unit
-
Mobile Research Units Help Diversify Clinical Trials | Eli Lilly and ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.lilly.com/clinical-research/driving-innovation
-
Taking the Wheel in Diverse Clinical Trial Recruitment: Introducing ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.astrazeneca-us.com/media/astrazeneca-us-blog/2024/taking-the-wheel-in-diverse-clinical-trial-recruitment-introducing-az-aire-mobile-unit.html
-
Walgreens and Boehringer Ingelheim Are Partnering to Improve Patient Representation in Clinical Trials, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/improving-access-clinical-trials
-
Diversity is key to clinical trial success: how mobile units are unlocking access to communities - EMS Healthcare, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ems-healthcare.com/news/diversity-is-key-to-clinical-trial-success-how-mobile-units-are-unlocking-access-to-communities/
-
Advancing Diversity in Clinical Trials - IMA Research, accessed April 28, 2025, https://imaresearch.com/blog/advancing-diversity-in-clinical-trials/
-
HHS Actions to Enhance Diversity in Clinical Research - NCBI Bookshelf, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK611096
-
New Mobile Research Unit brings clinical trials to Cornwall's remote ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://royalcornwallhospitals.nhs.uk/2025/03/06/new-mobile-research-unit-brings-clinical-trials-to-cornwalls-remote-coastal-and-underserved-communities/
-
Mobile Research Unit | University Hospitals, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.uhhospitals.org/uh-research/for-patients/mobile-research-unit
-
Mobile Research Unit | University Hospitals, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.uhhospitals.org/uh-research/for-researchers/research-and-clinical-trials/mobile-research-unit
-
Mobile Community Research Sites - PPD, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ppd.com/how-we-help/decentralized-clinical-trials/mobile-community-research-sites/
-
Fenway Health Builds Community Trust for Clinical Trials | editorial - The Conference Forum, accessed April 28, 2025, https://theconferenceforum.org/editorial/building-community-trust-to-bring-healthcare-and-clinical-research-to-underserved-populations
-
CNS Healthcare Mobile Health & Clinical Research Unit, accessed April 28, 2025, https://cnshealthcare.com/home-b2b/mobile-health/
-
WVCTSI unveils "MAVERICK" to revolutionize access to health research in rural West Virginia | School of Medicine, accessed April 28, 2025, https://medicine.wvu.edu/News/Story?headline=wvctsi-unveils-maverick-to-revolutionize-healthcare-access-in-rural-west-virginia
-
UAB uses mobile clinic to examine disease risk of rural Southerners, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.uab.edu/news/health-medicine/uab-uses-mobile-clinic-to-examine-disease-risk-of-rural-southerners
-
Sites on wheels: bringing the clinical trial to the patient's doorstep, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.clinicaltrialsarena.com/features/sites-on-wheels-bringing-clinical-trial-to-patients/
-
Mobile Clinical Trials - MobileTestingClinic.com, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.mobiletestingclinic.com/mobile-clinical-trials.html
-
The “Journey to Better Health” Mobile Education Exhibit, accessed April 28, 2025, https://globalforum.diaglobal.org/issue/november-2024/the-journey-to-better-health-mobile-education-exhibit/
-
Journey to Better Health Mobile Exhibit - CISCRP - Find an Event ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ciscrp.org/mobileexhibit/
-
CISCRP - Clinical Research Programs and Services, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ciscrp.org/
-
Innovative Mobile Health Unit Revolutionizes Clinical Research Site Education and Outreach, accessed April 28, 2025, https://ergclinical.com/innovative-mobile-health-unit-revolutionizes-clinical-research-site-education-and-outreach/
-
Mobile Health and Education Clinics - Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, accessed April 28, 2025, https://medicine.campbell.edu/about/community-engagement/mobile-health-and-education-clinics/
-
Fox Chase Cancer Center Builds a Community Engagement Foundation for Trials, accessed April 28, 2025, https://theconferenceforum.org/editorial/how-fox-chase-is-using-the-foundation-of-community-engagement-to-approach-patients-with-research
-
Mobile units help South Siders participate in research - UChicago ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/cancer-articles/mobile-units-for-south-side-communities-to-participate-in-research
-
'Partnership-based center' to reduce health disparities launches in Hershey - Penn State, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.psu.edu/news/medicine/story/partnership-based-center-reduce-health-disparities-launches-hershey
-
New mobile research units making it easier for people in coastal ..., accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ems-healthcare.com/news/new-mobile-research-units-making-it-easier-for-people-in-coastal-areas-to-be-part-of-research/
-
Community - Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, accessed April 28, 2025, https://icahn.mssm.edu/research/conduits/community
-
Community Resources and Programs | Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.irvinginstitute.columbia.edu/community-health-resources
-
The PATIENTS Professors Academy - University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu/programs/the-patients-program/patients-academy/
-
Projects and Partners | Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.cdrewu.edu/research/student-research/community-health-workers/projects-and-partners/
-
(PDF) Increasing access to clinical research using an innovative mobile recruitment approach: The (MoRe) concept - ResearchGate, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343056679_Increasing_access_to_clinical_research_using_an_innovative_mobile_recruitment_approach_The_MoRe_concept
-
Mobile Clinical Research Unit | NINDS Division of Intramural Research, accessed April 28, 2025, https://research.ninds.nih.gov/researchers/ninds-core-facilities-and-research-resources/mobile-clinical-research-unit
-
Community Research Sites | Health Events | Screenings - H Clinical, accessed April 28, 2025, https://hclinical.com/community-research-sites/
-
Health Literacy: Making content clear, engaging, and appropriate for patients and the public - CISCRP, accessed April 28, 2025, https://www.ciscrp.org/health-literacy-making-content-clear-engaging-and-appropriate-for-patients-and-the-public/
-
Mobile Clinical Trials Unit | West Virginia Clinical & Translational Science Institute, accessed April 28, 2025, https://wvctsi.org/clinicaltrialscoe/mobile-clinical-trials-unit/
Topics: