Policy Guidance for Better Access of Underrepresented Populations to Clinical Trials and Research

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to enter into a contractual agreement with a successful bidder to carry out the following work: global scoping review of the categories of populations that are underrepresented in clinical trials for interventions they could benefit from (based on e.g. demographic, socioeconomic or health status, and risk profile), identifying systemic factors, mapping existing policies and frameworks that address barriers to both participation in clinical trials and benefits of research results with a specific focus on paediatrics, pregnancy, disability and the elderly, outlining common principles to promote equitable access, and drafting guidance and recommendations in support of the implementation of WHO Clinical Trials Resolution (WHA 75.8).

The work to be performed including three work packages (WPs):

Work package 1: scoping review of underrepresentated populations for different intervention types and root cause analysis of systemic causes for exclusion

Work package 2:  Map of existing policies, guidance frameworks and toolkits that address barriers to participation and identification of existing gaps and opportunities focussing on the categories of paediatrics, pregnancy, disability and the elderly, outline of common principles/ practices and approaches to promote equitable access and particular issues or groups warranting specific guidance

Work package 3: Draft guidance and recommendations for RECS/IRBs, regulatory, funders, researchers, working with WHO/HEG to support consultations on key stakeholders, and develop appropriate implementation tools, training and dissemination materials

See detailed Terms of Reference and bidding instructions under “Documents” below. 

Please note: it is NOT necessary to click on “Express Interest” on the top right-hand side of the screen. In order to inform WHO that you are interested in participating in this Request for Proposals, please follow the provisions of the RFP document below.