Health Equity Starts with Inclusive Research

Medicine often fails when treatment is one-size-fits-all. But health equity begins when “everyone” at the table truly means everyone. That’s where diversity in clinical trials transforms healthcare, from research textbooks into real-world impact.

At Synergy Groups Medical, serving the Houston and Missouri City area, clinical trials are more than medical studies, they're bridges to equity, prevention, and improved outcomes in communities historically left out of scientific innovation.

The Challenge: Disproportionate Disease Burden in Underserved Communities

In urban communities like those in Southeast Houston and Missouri City, home to many Black and Hispanic residents, chronic conditions are alarmingly prevalent:

• Hypertension

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Tobacco-related lung illness

These communities also face barriers including:

• Limited healthcare access

• Lack of screenings and preventative care

• Lack of insurance

• Ongoing mistrust of healthcare institutions

As a result, diseases are often diagnosed late, treatments less effective, and health disparities deepen, and clinical trial representation remains critically low. For example, less than 1% to 3% of Black or Hispanic community members participate in trials, even though they carry a disproportionate burden of disease.

Why Representation in Clinical Research Matters

Scientific accuracy requires studying medicine in diverse, real-world populations, because genetics, comorbidities, and environment affect outcomes differently.

• Trial data lacking representation could lead to medications that are less effective or unsafe for excluded groups.

  

• Studies show that clinical trials led by underrepresented investigators see dramatically higher minority enrollment, for instance, a female lead in heart failure trials increased female participants by 50%.

• Strategies like community outreach, culturally competent staff, and decentralized trial models are proven to boost participation in underserved populations.

As Dr. Ajani says:
“Research shouldn’t be one-size‑fits‑all. When everyone participates, we create medicine that actually works for everyone.”

How Synergy Groups Medical Makes Research Accessible and Inclusive

At Synergy, the commitment to equity is built into daily operations:

• Three Houston-area locations (Southeast Houston, Southwest Houston, Missouri City) embedded in underserved communities.

• No insurance required, 100% free care, and participant compensation for time and travel.

• Multilingual staff and materials tailored to community languages.

• Local education efforts, social media outreach, and presence in community events to build trust and dispel myths.

• Patient-centered design aligns with best practices identified in national equity-focused research centers.

Current and Upcoming Synergy Clinical Trials: Reducing Community Disease Burden

Trials available now or coming soon include:

• Hypertension – screening leads to early detection of heart and kidney strain before symptoms appear. High blood pressure disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic adults.

• COPD – addressing chronic respiratory conditions linked to smoking and environmental exposure.

• Smoking Cessation – medically supervised support to reduce lung disease, cancer risk, and long-term burden.

• UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections) – especially impacting women with recurrent infections, improving quality of life and reducing antibiotic use.

Each trial offers free medical screening, including bloodwork, EKGs, and physician evaluation, along with compensation and ongoing participant support.

Making a Difference: From Trials to Transformations

Clinical research has ripple effects:

Earlier diagnoses reduce disease progression and related complications.

Multi-benefit medications, discovered through trials, offer better outcomes at lower costs.

Real-world impact example:

Diabetes medications studied in Synergy’s trials now reduce blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and protect kidney function.

• Dr. Ajani explains,
  “Over 13 diabetes trials led to one medication that cuts multiple disease risks. That’s how one medicine can reduce burden for families, and for nations.”

This level of care translates into:

• Fewer ER visits and hospitalizations

• Lower healthcare expenses

• Less time missed from work and improved life productivity

• Stronger long-term outcomes for communities

Research-Backed Impact: What the Data Shows

• Clinical trials involving diverse participants generate evidence that’s safer and more relevant to marginalized groups.

• Recruitment strategies like community engagement, inclusive staff, and simplified logistics significantly increase minority enrollment.

• Trials led by diverse investigators yield higher minority participation rates and better retention.

• Without inclusive data, underserved groups face delayed treatment, improper dosing, and reduced efficacy, raising disease burden across generations.

Dr. Ajani: Leading Equity Through Science

Dr. Ajani has been at the forefront of this mission:

• Launched clinical trials in 1992, when diabetes treatment options were limited.

• Over 20 years at Synergy, and more than 13 diabetes trials through which better, multi-benefit treatments emerged.

• He emphasizes that economical benefits extend beyond individuals, easing burden for families, economies, and future generations.

“One medicine can reduce the disease burden for families, and for nations.”

Take the First Step, Join the Movement Toward Health Equity

You might qualify if you:

• Are between 18–65 years old

• Live in Houston or Missouri City

• Have hypertension, COPD, recurrent UTIs, or use tobacco

• Don’t have insurance or need new treatment options

No insurance needed. No cost to participate. Compensation and support included.

• Chat with our team on the website

• Fill out a short form to check eligibility

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is diverse representation in clinical trials essential?

A: It ensures treatments are effective and safe for populations historically excluded from standard research.

Q: Is it safe and ethical for underserved communities to participate?

A: Yes, every study is regulated by the FDA and reviewed by independent ethics boards.

Q: What if I feel well? Can I still join?

A: Absolutely, many trials involve asymptomatic screening to prevent future illness.

Q: Do I need insurance?
A: No. Synergy covers all testing and care at no cost.

Q: Will I be paid?

A: Yes, most trials offer compensation for time and travel.

Q: Is it OK to continue seeing my regular doctor?

A: Definitely. Clinical trials supplement your regular care, not replace it.

Conclusion: Equity in Research = Better Health for All

When trials are inclusive, communities thrive. When clinical research centers like Synergy bring studies to underserved neighborhoods, the impact is transformative, improved treatments, measurable health gains, and fewer medical catastrophes.

Participation doesn’t just benefit science, it changes lives, reverses inequities, and builds healthier communities in Houston and beyond.