Geographic Inequities in Access to Phase 3 Clinical Trials for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the United States

Abstract

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are an important mode of access to treatments for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) (eg, Crohn's disease [CD], ulcerative colitis [UC]), and a critical step in the regulatory process toward the approval of new therapies. Prior studies examining disparities in RCT participation for patients with IBD have importantly focused on racial and age-related disparities.1,2 Lack of geographic access to trials may be an important barrier to participation and a source of inequity. The aim of our study was to geographically map access to phase 3 clinical trials in IBD within the United States, and identify the impact of rural residence and socioeconomic status on access to trials.