Ark Clinical Research’s New Mobile Unit: Pioneering Decentralized Clinical Research & Continued Focus on Diversity

LONG BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ark Clinical Research (“Ark”) is set to unveil a cutting-edge mobile unit in early 2025, revolutionizing the way clinical trials are conducted. This strategic initiative aims to broaden the reach of Ark’s research efforts, particularly by engaging with diverse populations. By utilizing a mobile unit, Ark can increase accessibility and diversity in clinical research for underserved communities, enhancing the effectiveness and scope of its research.

Enhancing Accessibility

Historically, clinical trials have been confined to specific geographic locations, which can often exclude rural populations, minorities, and lower income groups from participation in clinical research. With Ark’s mobile unit, the trial will come directly to participants rather than requiring them to visit the research site. “The launch of our mobile unit is a transformative step in improving accessibility,” said Samira Moran, CEO & President of Ark Clinical Research. “It allows us to reach diverse populations, ensuring our trials are more inclusive and representative of the population of patients who need medical care.”

Supporting Decentralized Clinical Trials

Ark’s mobile unit also aligns with the growing trend of decentralized clinical trials (DCTs), which “allow trial-related activities to occur remotely at locations convenient for trial participants.”¹ This can include telehealth visits, in-home visits, or mobile vans where elements of the research trial can occur outside traditional medical offices or hospitals. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA provided guidance on conducting DCTs in 2023, and Ark’s mobile unit is a step toward modernizing trial operations.

The unit will allow Ark to conduct key trial procedures—such as blood draws, sample collections, and monitoring—remotely. This flexibility is particularly crucial for Ark’s work in fields such as metabolic, CNS, and vaccines, where frequent visits can be prohibitive for participants. Remote clinical trial visits and clinical trial-related activities can significantly reduce participant burden, enabling individuals to remain engaged in trials.

Strengthening Community Engagement

The mobile unit will enhance Ark’s commitment to strengthening its ties with local communities, building trust and engagement, particularly in communities that may historically be wary of participating in clinical trials. The mobile unit will conduct community outreach events, health screenings, and educational initiatives, creating an accessible entry point for individuals to learn about clinical research and get involved.

Moreover, having a mobile presence allows Ark to collaborate with local healthcare providers, further reinforcing its reputation as a research leader with a commitment to improving public health.

Improving Data Quality and Relevance

Through the mobile unit, Ark will be able to reach a more diverse participant base, which will enhance the quality of clinical trial data. With broader representation across ethnicity, socioeconomics, and geography, Ark can ensure that its findings are applicable to a wider array of individuals. This will lead to comprehensive data and ensure that treatments are effective across different populations.

The mobile unit will allow Ark to gather this diverse data while ensuring rigorous oversight. By maintaining strict adherence to protocols and utilizing digital health technologies, the data collected remains accurate, consistent, and reliable.

Conclusion

Ark’s mobile unit represents a significant milestone in making clinical trials more accessible and inclusive. The mobile unit will enhance participant engagement, strengthen community relationships, and provide robust patient data. By embracing mobility and decentralization, Ark is poised to lead the industry in forward-thinking clinical trial design, ensuring that the cutting-edge research is pushing forward to help patients in need.

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¹ https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/conducting-clinical-trials-decentralized-elements