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Cancer clinical trials remain out of reach for too many patients — but community oncology practices could change that. Geographic distance, language barriers, and lack of awareness keep enrollment rates low, with only ~7% of adult cancer patients joining trials. Embedding trial access into everyday community cancer care is proving to be a practical fix, with early results showing more diverse participation.
Cancer clinical trials are the engine of treatment innovation, but they've long had a participation problem. Only about 7.1% of adult cancer patients enrolled in trials between 2013 and 2017 — and when trials miss enrollment targets (which happens 20–40% of the time), studies close early, slowing progress for everyone. The gap between patients willing to participate and those who actually do points to real-world barriers: geography, language, distrust, and logistics.
Community oncology practices are stepping up as a solution. By integrating trial awareness into routine care, translating study materials, and building relationships with local churches, neighborhood clinics, and cultural organizations, practices like Texas Oncology are making participation more accessible. Their collaboration with Sarah Cannon Research Institute brings trial opportunities directly into communities — no long drives required.
By the Numbers
Why it matters: When trial populations don't reflect real-world patients, research findings have limited applicability. Expanding community-based access doesn't just boost enrollment numbers — it produces more representative data and ensures that treatment advances reach the patients who need them most.
