On November 13th and14th the Milken Institute’s Health Summit brought together over 1,200 leaders from across the healthcare spectrum to discuss innovative solutions to pressing health challenges. A standout moment was TANGO2 Research Foundation’s Director of Research Engagement Deena Chisholm’s panel presentation, “Beyond Checkboxes: Elevating Diversity and Representativeness in Patient Engagement.” 

Deena emphasized the importance of designing patient-centered research studies that go beyond meeting diversity quotas. She highlighted the need to meaningfully engage underrepresented communities, like the rare disease community throughout the entire research process—from identifying priorities to implementing findings. By incorporating lived experiences, shared outcomes of interest & addressing barriers to participation, researchers and industry can ensure that health solutions are meaningful, equitable and impactful.  

The discussion also focused on practical strategies for building trust and collaboration with communities, fostering long-term partnerships, and using data to drive meaningful change.  

Learn more about the summit’s agenda and other impactful sessions here 

For deeper insights into Deena’s work with the TANGO2 Research Foundation, visit our TDD Research Learning Network.  

Let’s continue the conversation on how we can make TDD research more patient-centered, inclusive and transformative!