The PAN Foundation announces upcoming clinical trial education initiative 

The PAN Foundation today announced its upcoming clinical trial education initiative, which will launch in fall 2024. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide individuals with unbiased information and support to increase participation and diversity in clinical trials.

Why clinical trial education matters

At the PAN Foundation, we recognize the critical need for accessible, and easy-to-understand education about clinical trials and the pressing need to increase representation from across diverse populations. According to our recent national survey, 75 percent of adults with chronic illnesses expressed a strong interest in learning more about clinical trials but lacked the necessary information to participate. This interest is particularly high among younger adults (84 percent of those aged 18-34) and minority groups (83 percent of Hispanic adults and 76 percent of Black adults). 

Addressing barriers to clinical trial participation

Despite this high level of interest, significant barriers prevent many from participating in clinical trials. Our survey revealed that nearly 40 percent of adults with chronic illnesses do not know where to find information or who to contact about clinical trials. Moreover, more than half of the respondents were unaware of what trials they may be eligible for (58 percent) or how to apply (49 percent). 

PAN’s clinical trial initiative

Our clinical trial education initiative will address these challenges through:  

• A robust education platform co-designed with communities who are underrepresented in clinical trials.  
• One-on-one support to help people understand and find clinical trials. 
• Outreach to connect with diverse groups underrepresented in clinical research.   

“Our new initiative will empower patients with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of clinical trials and ensure they have the support they need to participate,” said Kevin L. Hagan, President and CEO of the PAN Foundation. “By providing comprehensive, accessible information and personalized support, we aim to facilitate higher participation rates in clinical trials, especially among underrepresented communities.”

Learn more and get involved today

Sign up for updates and to get involved with our clinical trial education initiative

If you want regular updates about our clinical trial educational services and resources, sign up for email alerts.  

Browse our past work in clinical trial education, research, and advocacy

• Our policy position: Increase diversity in clinical trials to improve health equity 
• Our national poll: Barriers to clinical trial participation 
• Our webinar and blog: Expanding diversity in clinical trials  
• Our resource page: Official government resources for finding a clinical trial.  

About the PAN Foundation

The PAN Foundation is an independent, national 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to helping federally and commercially insured people living with life-threatening, chronic, and rare diseases with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications.   

Since 2004, we have provided more than 1.1 million underinsured patients with $4 billion in financial assistance. Partnering with generous donors, healthcare providers and pharmacies, we provide the underinsured population access to the healthcare treatments they need to best manage their conditions and focus on improving their quality of life. Learn more at panfoundation.org.