Bridging Research, Accurate Information, and Dialogue (BRAID) to Improve Trust in Clinical Research Trials

Abstract Background Lack of trust in scientific research and in healthcare systems is a well-documented barrier to minoritized participation in clinical trials. Objective To apply the Bridging Research, Accurate Information and Dialogue (BRAID) model to understand barriers to participation and improve trust in science and clinical trials. Methods Community leaders from Bronx, NY community-based organizations were invited to participate in a series of BRAID Conversation Circles regarding clinical trials. Clinical and scientific guests joined to address questions. Twelve Circles were convened between June and August 2022 via Zoom. Inductive thematic analysis was used to code Circle transcripts. Pre/post surveys assessed participants' knowledge and attitudes. Results Twenty community experts participated. Ages 26–75, 71% female, 59% Non-Hispanic Black, 41% Hispanic/Latino. Five overarching themes emerged: Influence of historic and contemporary racism; Personal factors impacting participation; Motivations to participate; Methods to improve participation; BRAID as a model for restitution. Surveys demonstrated increased trust in clinical research: 85% Post vs. 38% Pre would definitely consider participating in a clinical trial; 83% Post vs. 58% Pre would definitely recommend participation to others. Conclusion The BRAID model was effective in improving trust in science and clinical research. To ensure diverse representation of marginalized populations in clinical research, interventions must be sensitive to historical injustices and address structural barriers that persist today. BRAID is an effective and reproducible model of community trust-building that has potential to provide restitution by validating experiences, emphasizing progress, and empowering trusted messengers to spread accurate health information within larger social networks.