Abstract: TH-PO0617
Patient-Facing Digital Platform to Address Health Equity Gaps in Kidney Disease Clinical Trial Awareness
Session Information
- CKD: Clinical - Guidelines, Biomarkers, Progression, Procedures, Outcomes, and More
October 22, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: CKD (Non-Dialysis)
- 2202 CKD (Non-Dialysis): Clinical, Outcomes, and Trials
Author
- Kaur, Harpreet (Priti), nephAnalytics, Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Background
Rural, minority, and low-income populations experience a disproportionate burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) yet remain underrepresented in kidney disease clinical trials. Prior studies suggest these disparities are driven more by limited awareness, outreach, and referral pathways than unwillingness to participate. We developed a patient-facing digital platform designed to improve awareness of clinical trial opportunities through plain-language educational resources and self-directed trial discovery, with emphasis on kidney disease research.
Methods
We launched ClinicalTrialFor.Me (www.clinicaltrialfor.me), a web-based patient engagement platform designed to provide accessible educational content regarding clinical trials and allow individuals to identify actively recruiting studies listed on ClinicalTrials.gov that may be relevant to their condition. The platform uses plain-language descriptions and a simplified interface intended for individuals without medical or research backgrounds. Interested users may self-identify potential interest in participation and request connection with participating research sites for additional screening and referral. Although the platform supports multiple therapeutic areas, kidney disease trials were prioritized because of disparities in nephrology trial awareness and participation.
Results
The platform was implemented as a scalable digital outreach model intended to improve awareness and engagement in clinical research among underserved populations. The design emphasizes accessibility, patient-directed engagement, and reduction of geographic and educational barriers that may limit research participation. Initial user feedback supported ease of navigation and accessibility for individuals without prior clinical research experience.
Conclusion
Underrepresentation of rural and underserved populations in CKD clinical trials remains a significant health equity challenge. A patient-facing digital platform using plain-language education and self-directed trial discovery represents a scalable strategy to improve awareness and engagement in kidney disease research. Broader application of this model across therapeutic areas may support more equitable access to clinical research participation and reduce structural barriers to trial awareness.