A qualitative evaluation of the Research Equity and Diversity Initiative’s (READI) research support voucher program and its community engagement support

The Duke Research Equity and Diversity Initiative (READI) was established in 2021 to engage Durham and surrounding communities in clinical research and build capacity to promote equitable access to research participation. Within READI, a voucher program was launched with the goals of increasing diverse participation in clinical research, improving community-partnered research, and enhancing community engagement. The vouchers leveraged a stand-alone, community-centered, outpatient research clinic, the Duke Research at Pickett (R@P) facility, which was originally opened to support COVID-19 trials. A formative evaluation of the voucher program was conducted with 3 voucher-awarded teams, READI personnel, and R@P staff. Data included 18 semi-structured interviews (<i>n</i> = 14) over two timepoints (Spring 2023, 2024). A rapid response analysis approach was used. Data indicate that READI voucher-awarded services were useful for voucher teams, with value for supporting community-engaged efforts, making research participation accessible, creating a community-centered and streamlined service facility, and personnel development benefits. Communication and flexibility of support services facilitated program implementation. Challenges occurred in service utilization logistics and incorporating community engagement into research support services. Ultimately, we find that a research support program with embedded community engagement support is feasible; this type of support can be integral in normalizing community-engaged research.