Clinical Trials: Considerations for Women and Ethnic Minorities

Clinical trials are considered the "gold standard" of medical research, and participation in clinical trials provides treatment opportunities for a wide variety of patients. The purpose of this course is to increase the knowledge base of healthcare professionals, social workers, and other allied health professionals about clinical trials, particularly the representation of women and racial/ethnic minorities in these trials. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Analyze the various components and types of clinical trials.
2. Outline the historical and sociocultural context of clinical trials.
3. Evaluate the sociocultural, medical, and scientific research milieu in order to better understand women's and racial/ethnic minorities' roles in clinical trials.
4. Discuss arguments and counterarguments for the inclusion of women and racial/ethnic minorities in clinical trials.
5. Identify barriers that contribute to the under-representation of women and racial/ethnic minorities in clinical trials.
6. Identify ethical issues specific to the inclusion of women and racial/ethnic minorities in clinical trials.
7. Discuss the role of healthcare and behavioral health professionals in the recruitment and retention of women and racial/ethnic minorities in clinical trials.

This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.