Trial Library
Background and Challenge
Recruiting participants for clinical trials is a persistent challenge at UCSF, particularly when it comes to diversity. Black and Hispanic patients make up less than 5 percent of trial participants, despite representing 12 percent and 16 percent of the U.S. population. Disparities are especially pronounced in diseases like prostate cancer, where Black men face higher risks but remain underrepresented. Recruitment overall is difficult: “More than 30 percent of clinical trial sites fail to recruit even a single participant, 50 percent fail to reach enrollment goals, and fewer than 20 percent finish on time,” according to Dr. Borno and colleagues. “The current strategies for clinical trial recruitment leave much room for improvement,” the paper adds.
Dr. Borno partnered with SOM Tech to develop technology aimed at broadening recruitment and engaging a larger, more diverse group of participants in clinical studies.
Matching Patients with Trials
Wireframing patient filters to optimize trial search results
SOM Tech began with ClinicalTrials.gov, a database of publicly and privately funded clinical studies worldwide, and added a mapping feature that allowed patients to filter trials by location, helping overcome travel barriers that often limit participation. The site was also designed to accommodate diverse linguistic and literacy needs.
To make the platform more relatable and approachable, personal stories, videos from the study team, and supportive resources were incorporated. Search results explained why each clinical trial was a good match for a patient’s specific needs.
Wireframes and, later, visual designs were iteratively refined with feedback from the research team and a panel of prostate cancer patients to ensure usability and broad relevance.
Creating an Approachable, Adaptable Interface
The initial Trial Library launched as a web-based tool for a limited group of prostate cancer patients but was designed to be adaptable for any clinical study. Accessible on computers and smartphones, it emphasized user-friendly, human-centered design, allowing patients to explore trials, discuss options with their physicians, and navigate the site easily, while early features like patient stories were scaled back based on user feedback.
Home page
Search filter page
Study page
Outcomes and Impact
Trial Library was tested with 66 prostate cancer patients who used the site and completed questionnaires, including whether it prompted discussions with their doctors about trials—a key measure of success. From this and other studies, Borno and her team identified three critical lessons: healthcare providers are gatekeepers who need tools to support patients; accessible clinical trial information empowers patients; and technology solutions must integrate with human guidance to address social determinants of health. With these insights, Borno spun Trial Library out of UCSF into a public benefit company, raised funding, and assumed the role of CEO.
My Work
UX: personas, empathy maps, lit review
Co-designed interactions
Built prototypes
Conducted user testing
Designed website, icons, and visual identity
Developed style guide and collaborated with vendor
Advised on presentation strategy