AstraZeneca seeks minority MDs for trials

Working with physician groups, AstraZeneca has begun an initiative intended to bring more minority doctors on board for drug trials. Right now, African-American doctors account for about 3 percent of U.S. doctors, and Hispanic doctors a smaller percentage. About 13 percent of American doctors participate in drug trials, according to the drugmaker. AstraZeneca said that it intends to collaborate with an African-American physician group, the National Medical Association, and the Interamerican College of Physicians and Surgeons. The intent is not only to foster diversity, but also to indirectly boost enrollment of minority patients participating in drug trials. AstraZeneca execs also believe minority doctors will offer insights into the cultural nuances found in their communities.

To learn more about the effort:
- read this United Press International article