WHO WE ARE

What is MedEqual

MedEqual is a student-led, volunteer-based, and registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the critical gap in representation of minorities, particularly South Asians, in clinical trials and medical research. Founded on the principle that health equity requires inclusive medical data, we work across multiple fronts to increase participation of underrepresented communities in medical research.

Our organization brings together healthcare professionals, community leaders, and industry experts committed to ensuring that medical advancements benefit all populations equally. Through awareness campaigns, advocacy efforts, and strategic partnerships, we strive to transform the landscape of clinical research to reflect the true diversity of our society.

Our Mission
Our Vision

Our mission is to enhance representation of minorities specifically South Asians in clinical trials and medical research. We aim to achieve this through comprehensive community awareness campaigns, physician engagement, healthcare industry alliances and partnerships and impactful advocacy efforts at the grassroots level, ensuring inclusive and equitable health outcomes for all.

We envision a future where medical research fully represents the diversity of our society, where treatments are proven effective for all populations, and where health disparities due to underrepresentation in clinical trials are eliminated. We see a world where South Asian Americans and all minority communities participate equitably in the advancement of medical science, leading to more personalized and effective healthcare for everyone.

Physician Engagement

We collaborate with healthcare providers to educate them about the importance of diverse representation in clinical trials and equip them with resources to encourage patient participation. Our "I Pledge" initiative invites physicians to commit to discussing clinical trial opportunities with eligible patients from underrepresented groups.

Community Outreach

We conduct targeted outreach in spaces where South Asian communities gather, including temples, gurdwaras, specialty grocery stores, and cultural centers. Through these efforts, we raise awareness about the importance of clinical trial participation and address community-specific concerns and barriers.

Healthcare Industry Alliance

We build strategic partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and healthcare organizations to advocate for more inclusive trial design and recruitment strategies. We present at industry conferences to amplify our message and create systemic change.

Communications

We leverage digital platforms—such as social media, our website, and targeted content—to raise awareness about the importance of diversity in clinical trials. Our communications strategy prioritizes culturally relevant messaging that engages our target communities and strengthens our mission to make clinical research more inclusive and equitable.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

Our efforts to enhance diversity in clinical trials support SDG 3's aim to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. By ensuring that medical treatments are tested on diverse populations, we help develop interventions that are effective for everyone, regardless of ethnic background. This contributes to universal health coverage and access to safe, effective medications for all communities.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

MedEqual's mission aligns perfectly with SDG 10's goal of reducing inequality within and among countries. By promoting the inclusion of underrepresented minorities in medical research, we work to eliminate health disparities and ensure that the benefits of medical advancements are equitably distributed across all segments of the population. When diverse groups participate in clinical trials, the resulting data helps address health inequalities and improves outcomes for previously marginalized communities.