Exploring a new horizon in clinical trial access across New Brunswick
Developing a playbook for delivering decentralized clinical trials in New Brunswick.
client
Horizon Health Network
role
Service designer
methods
Desk research, in-depth interviews, co-creation workshop, ideation, brainstorm, journey mapping, storyboarding, service blueprint,
PROBLEM SPACEThe COVID-19 pandemic surfaced many challenges, but perhaps none as critical as those in healthcare - and by extension, clinical research. Healthcare organizations across the globe have expanded virtual and community-based care to improve patient access. From video visits to local pharmacies delivering vaccines, healthcare is moving closer to meet people where they are, especially for rural and underserved populations.
Horizon Health Network, one of the provincial health authorities of New Brunswick, sought to improve access to clinical trials across the province for residents with difficulties accessing sites where research typically occurs
Rethinking Research: Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs)
Traditional clinical trials often exclude patients who can’t travel long distances or juggle competing responsibilities. Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs) use digital tools like video calls, online surveys, and remote monitoring devices to remove these barriers.
In regions like New Brunswick, where half of residents live in rural areas, DCTs can make research participation far more accessible—bringing innovation to communities that were often left out.
Horizon’s Vision for Accessible Research
Horizon Health Network supports 500 research studies each year. To modernize trial delivery, Horizon set out to design a digital platform for DCTs—one that reduces barriers and makes research more inclusive.
Working with Bridgeable, we engaged patients, caregivers, and researchers to understand their needs and design a solution that works for everyone.
Overview of the approach
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