Purpose

Tampa Bay Medical Research (TBMR) is committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of our operations, including participant recruitment, care provider relationships, staff engagement, and the development and implementation of clinical trials. We believe that a diverse and inclusive approach enhances the quality, relevance, and effectiveness of our research, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for all communities.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, partners, participants, and stakeholders involved in our clinical research activities. It outlines our commitment to inclusivity and diversity and provides a framework for ensuring that our trials reflect the diverse populations we aim to serve.

1. Commitment to Diversity in Research Participation
   

We recognize the importance of including participants from diverse backgrounds to ensure our research is representative and beneficial to all. We actively promote the inclusion of:

• Individuals of all races, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds.
  
• People of all genders, ages, and sexual orientations, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
  
• People with disabilities and those from various socio-economic backgrounds.
  
• Individuals from underrepresented and marginalized groups.

2. Culturally Competent Recruitment and Retention
   

We strive to create culturally appropriate and accessible recruitment materials and methods. Our recruitment strategies are designed to reach diverse communities and reduce barriers to participation by:

• Engaging with community leaders and organizations to build trust and partnerships.
  
• Providing multilingual resources and translators to accommodate participants with different language needs.
  
• Offering flexible scheduling, transportation support, and compensation to ensure trials are accessible to participants of various backgrounds and circumstances.

3. Inclusive Workplace Environment
   

TBMR is dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment where all employees and collaborators feel respected, valued, and supported. We are committed to:

• Equal opportunity employment practices and anti-discrimination policies in hiring, promotion, and training.

• Providing ongoing diversity and cultural competency training for all staff to ensure respectful and effective communication and engagement with diverse populations.

• Encouraging an open and inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are heard and valued in decision-making processes.

4. Data Collection and Reporting
   

To measure our progress and ensure accountability, we collect and analyze demographic data on trial participants, including race, gender, age, and other relevant characteristics. This data is used to:

• Monitor the diversity of our trial populations and identify any gaps in representation.
  
• Develop targeted strategies to improve inclusivity where needed.
  
• Report findings transparently to stakeholders, ensuring that our commitment to diversity is both visible and measurable.

5. Community Engagement and Education
   

We actively engage with the communities we serve to build trust, educate, and create awareness about the importance of diversity in clinical trials. This includes:

• Hosting community events and information sessions to increase understanding of our research and its benefits.
  
• Collaborating with local organizations to co-develop culturally sensitive education materials.
  
• Listening to feedback from community members and participants to continuously improve our practices.

6. Accessibility and Accommodation
   

We are committed to making our trials accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical, cognitive, or sensory abilities. Our facility provides:

• Accessible locations for trial activities and accommodations, such as ramps, sign language interpreters, and assistive technologies.

• Personalized support for participants with disabilities to ensure a safe and comfortable trial experience.

7. Continuous Improvement

Our inclusivity and diversity efforts are continuously assessed and improved based on feedback from participants, staff, and community partners. We commit to regularly reviewing and updating this policy to align with best practices and evolving community needs.

Conclusion

Tampa Bay Medical Research values diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to achieving meaningful and impactful research outcomes. By embracing these principles, we aim to contribute to a healthcare system that is equitable, accessible, and beneficial for all.