This discussion between Omar Barnett, CEO of Prospective Research, and Dr. Renee centers around the significance of diversity in clinical trials and the role of research in improving healthcare outcomes, particularly for marginalized communities.
Dr. Renee underscores the importance of clinical trials for Black and Brown individuals, noting historical disparities in medical research and the consequent inefficacy of certain drugs in non-represented populations. The conversation delves into the need for diversity in research participation and the evolving strategies, including the FDA’s push for ethnic inclusivity in clinical trials.
They discuss common misconceptions and fears surrounding clinical trials within minority communities, stressing the educational aspect to dispel myths and encourage participation. Barnett emphasizes the benefits of research participation, such as access to advanced treatments, comprehensive medical care, and the opportunity to contribute to medical advancements.
Drawing from personal experiences, Dr. Renee shares her involvement in various clinical trials, highlighting the tangible benefits, including free medication, diagnostics, and a deeper understanding of her health condition. Both speakers emphasize the importance of patient-doctor rapport fostered during clinical trials, which often leads to enhanced patient care and trust.
The conversation extends to the expansion of Prospective Research and its goal to establish ten facilities by 2027, with Omar expressing interest in global outreach, including potential centers in Jamaica. Dr. Renee applauds Barnett’s leadership as a Black entrepreneur in the medical research field, stressing the importance of representation in healthcare initiatives.
The dialogue concludes with reflections on the transformative impact of clinical trials, citing breakthroughs like HIV prevention drugs as products of research. They emphasize the role of community engagement and trusted voices in promoting research participation, ultimately advocating for informed decision-making and active involvement in clinical trials for improved health outcomes.
Omar Barnett: Hi, good evening. How are you doing?
Dr. Renee: I’m great. How are you?
Omar Barnett: Happy to be here.
Dr. Renee: Awesome. So today, you guys, we have Omar Barnett. He is the CEO of Prospective Research. So he’s gonna tell us all about Prospective Research, and we’re gonna then talk more a little more about exactly what he does there and stuff. But first just tell us about Prospective Research.
Omar Barnett: Sure. Prospective Research is a leading research company in the City of Branch of Cucamonga founded back in 2014 and we’ve been steadily growing since then. We’re multi-therapeutic. Currently, the only thing that we do not do research in is oncology, which we’re steadily working our way up that ladder.
Dr. Renee: So when you say therapeutics, so what exactly are you guys do you have doctors there, nurses there, what exactly are you guys doing?
Omar Barnett: We have everything you know especially for the research studies I do networking everyday so we have from oncology, ophthalmology, internal medicine, and pharma medicine. So on my staff itself we have approximately about 10 staff members, and we’re steadily growing, and we have doctors that oversee each of our clinical research projects. We do studies from knee pain, back pain, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, obesity, depression, schizophrenia, just to name a few. So if you could think about think of the diagnosis, I’ve probably worked on it. If not, I’m getting there.
Dr. Renee: Awesome. So I have to ask, how did you get into this space? Because I know you’re not a scientist, are you?
Omar Barnett: No. I am not.
Dr. Renee: That’s what I’m saying. So how did you get into this? Because it’s so fascinating when I hear about business people who get into science much like the CEO of blackdoctor.org who is not a scientist either, but every day through his, you know, through this what through the website through the programming he is helping to you know change lives and make our community healthier, right? So how did you get into this?
Omar Barnett: You know, that is an awesome question, I would say by the grace of God to be honest, I, when I first moved over here to the states obviously I’m from Jamaica, and I was 20 years old and I signed up with a temp agency. Would you have would you know that, the temp agency, got me into this medical research center? Granted I did I did I did not know anything about medical research, however, from that point, I don’t know, I just fell in love with it. You could see I worked my way from the bottom to the top. So you name something, I probably know it, so to speak.
Omar Barnett: So it will I’d also say does anyone ask me that question? I always say it by the grace of God because, it’s just it’s something that is dear to me, so I just fell into what I should be doing.
Dr. Renee: That’s awesome. That is awesome. It’s a calling. And and then what we’ve talked about so much, especially in COVID, we talked about how important clinical trials are to black and brown people.
Omar Barnett: Yes.
Dr. Renee: Because unfortunately, in case no one knew, most of the time when they do a clinical trial, the participants are white males, you know, middle age. And honestly, it’s already been proven. There are medications currently on the market that do not work the same in Black people…There’s a hypertension drug that does not work well in black people because it was never tested on us, so they didn’t even realize this problem till after it came out on the market. So that is why clinical trials are clearly very important to our community. And so I know that that is very important to you as well to make certain that people, you know, of all races and ethnicities are represented. Right?
Omar Barnett: Absolutely. Regarding the COVID vaccine, a study by Harvard revealed that only around 18 percent or fewer participants were from ethnic backgrounds. This lack of diversity is concerning. However, I’ve noticed the FDA moving towards requiring pharmaceutical companies to prioritize diversity recruitment in clinical trials. As an African American myself, I find it easier to recruit and locate personnel from diverse backgrounds for such trials.
Dr. Renee: Indeed. While it’s not yet set in stone, the FDA seems to be moving towards making diversity recruitment a requirement for pharmaceutical companies conducting clinical trials. Platforms like Blackdoctor.org also play a crucial role in ensuring our community’s participation in trials. Often, people express skepticism, especially in medical matters. Understandably, considering historical incidents like Henrietta Lacks and the Tuskegee experiments. What’s been your experience discussing clinical trials with individuals?
Omar Barnett: Overcoming the stigma associated with being a “guinea pig” in clinical studies is challenging. However, education is key. COVID highlighted the importance of research, particularly with vaccines, leading to increased awareness. Educating communities, especially Black and Brown populations, about medical research and its benefits is crucial.
Dr. Renee: Absolutely. That’s why we’re actively engaging with various community groups, including faith-based organizations and fraternities/sororities, to spread awareness. Notable figures like Dr. Fauci and Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, who played a significant role in developing the Pfizer vaccine, serve as important examples. It’s about making informed decisions for our health and well-being.
Omar Barnett: Indeed. I was quick to get vaccinated with Pfizer as soon as it became available.
Dr. Renee: Precisely. At Blackdoctor.org, we strive to make information accessible to everyone. The COVID pandemic highlighted the severity of the situation, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It was a wake-up call for many to prioritize vaccination. So, what current studies are you focusing on for recruitment?
Omar Barnett: Currently, we’re focusing on several conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, asthma, ulcerative colitis, and soon we’ll be looking into PTSD. I’m constantly seeking new studies and applying for them daily. I also enjoy networking with other doctors to encourage their participation in research. It’s crucial to recognize that we can’t do this alone. Education is key, both for patients and doctors, as some may not fully understand the benefits of research participation.
Dr. Renee: I think part of the issue may be that some doctors may not see the immediate necessity of clinical trials for their patients. However, I recently learned that it’s better to enroll in a clinical trial before falling seriously ill rather than waiting until it’s a last resort. Personally, I’ve participated in clinical trials for asthma, a condition I’ve had my whole life. I’ve undergone various studies, including one where they examined my lungs while I slept. Though some may find it daunting, I wasn’t in pain and felt fine afterward. On the other hand, I also participated in allergy testing, which was a bit rough. I already knew I had numerous allergies, both environmental and food-related. They conducted skin prick tests, and for a while, I couldn’t scratch the areas. It was quite uncomfortable, and I remember thinking, “Why did I agree to this?”
I’ll never forget the allergy testing I underwent; I’m allergic to almost everything they tested. Despite the discomfort, participating in these studies has its perks. Firstly, they compensate you for your time and inconvenience. For example, they covered my parking fees and provided monetary compensation. In one study, they monitored my sleeping patterns using a Fitbit, and at the end, I got to keep the device. That’s why I still use a Fitbit to this day, thanks to a study I participated in over 15 years ago. This experience was invaluable to me, especially considering asthma runs in my family. If my participation can help future generations avoid lengthy hospital stays due to asthma attacks, then it’s worth it.
Omar Barnett: Your story illustrates the tremendous benefits of medical research. When you participate in a study, you receive advanced medication, free physical exams, lab tests, and comprehensive health assessments. Essentially, it’s like getting a free doctor’s appointment. Imagine the cost of these procedures if you had to pay for them individually. It’s staggering. For instance, the lung test you mentioned would involve multiple specialists and expensive equipment.
Dr. Renee: Exactly. Additionally, the data gathered from these studies can be incredibly useful. I received extra pulmonary function tests as part of the study, providing valuable insights into my lung health. This information allowed my doctor to tailor my treatment more effectively. Plus, participating in these studies while I was healthy allowed us to monitor any changes in my condition over time. It’s astonishing how much valuable information you can gain at no cost simply by participating in these studies. Whether it’s helping yourself or others, the impact is profound.
Omar Barnett: Indeed. Many patients express gratitude when they find a medication that works well for them through these studies. It’s like finding a solution tailored specifically to their needs. The fear surrounding medical research is understandable, often rooted in years of misinformation. It’s essential to dispel these fears and educate people about the benefits of participating in research. These studies offer a win-win situation, providing valuable insights and treatments without the need for insurance or costly medical visits.
Dr. Renee: Absolutely. In the asthma study I participated in, they provided me with prednisone, a medication I usually rely on during asthma attacks. And they gave it to me for free. They even handed me several bottles, just in case. It’s incredible how much you can receive at no cost. I understand people’s fears, but it’s truly worth exploring.
Omar Barnett: Exactly. We need better publicity surrounding medical research. In these studies, your medications are covered, and you gain invaluable knowledge about your health at no extra cost. The consent process is thorough, ensuring you fully understand every aspect. Bonding with patients is crucial in research. Unlike in a general practice, here, it’s one-on-one, allowing for deeper connections. Patients feel valued and are more likely to comply with study requirements when they feel connected.
Dr. Renee: Absolutely. I participated in a fibroid study over several years, even though I didn’t have fibroids myself. It allowed me to build meaningful relationships with the staff. Patients benefit from having someone they can trust and ask questions to, even outside the study scope.
Omar Barnett: While there are a few centers in my area, I aim to expand to ten facilities by 2027. I’m always looking to collaborate with other doctors interested in medical research.
Dr. Renee: I’ll share your information for anyone interested. Patients can visit your website to explore available trials. I’ll also highlight trials on blackdoctor.org. And Jamaica is next on your expansion list? Amazing! As an Antiguan, I’m all for it! I admire the fact that you, as a black man, are leading this effort. Honestly, I can’t think of many others in the field run by someone who looks like us. Your ability to connect with the black community is crucial. People trust those who resemble them, so having you spearhead this is incredibly important. Especially with my previous role, advocating for cord blood donations, being the face of that initiative made a significant impact within our community. It’s remarkable to see advancements like the HIV vaccine. It’s a result of countless clinical trials. Without our participation, we can’t ensure the safety and efficacy of these treatments.
Omar Barnett: Exactly. All research studies undergo rigorous FDA approval processes. The thick consent forms reflect the extensive scrutiny these studies face before involving human subjects.
Dr. Renee: I urge everyone to visit your website and explore available trials. For those outside your area, checking clinical trials on the blackdoctor.org page is a great start.
Omar Barnett: Absolutely. Our doors are open for networking. We foster a family-like atmosphere in our research community. Together, we can improve healthcare outcomes for our patients, families, and friends.
Dr. Renee: Thank you, Omar, for your time tonight. Wishing you continued success, although I’m certain you’ll achieve your goal of expanding to ten offices, especially with such strong support from your wife, Barbara Guzman.
Omar Barnett: Indeed. I’m grateful to my wife, Elvira, for her unwavering support in spreading awareness about medical research in our communities.
Dr. Renee: Thank you to both of you for sharing this crucial information. Rancho Cucamonga residents, please visit Omar’s website. Physicians and hospitals seeking recruitment assistance, reach out. Good night, everyone.
