Building Trust Through Understanding: Health Literacy in Clinical Research
Trusted, inclusive clinical research begins with health literacy—ensuring that communities can understand what research is, how it works, and why it matters.
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM ET
This live webinar will explore practical strategies for improving public understanding of clinical research and integrating health‑literacy principles into community outreach and engagement efforts. Through real‑world examples, we’ll examine how clear communication, culturally responsive engagement, and inclusive research principles translate into day‑to‑day study operations. Attendees will learn how to design outreach that supports participant understanding, addresses common misconceptions, and builds long‑term trust with the communities they serve.
Clinical research professionals will learn practical approaches to foster greater understanding, support informed decision‑making, and advance inclusive research participation.
Speakers:
Gianna Gemignani, BS, ACRP-CP
Clinical Research Project Coordinator
University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health (Department of OB/GYN)
I’m a clinical research professional specializing in reproductive health, where ethical research conduct requires clear, compassionate communication and a strong understanding of patient health literacy. My experience spans Phase III sponsored clinical trials, large-scale biorepository projects, and peer-support initiatives, giving me a well-rounded perspective on how health literacy impacts participant comprehension, engagement, and retention. Because reproductive health studies often involve complex and deeply personal decisions, I focus on making the informed consent process participant-centered, respectful, and accessible. I incorporate health literacy best practices such as plain language, teach-back techniques, and visual aids into my daily work to ensure participants not only sign consent but truly understand it. I am passionate about equipping coordinators and research teams with practical, ethical strategies to bridge the gap between regulatory compliance and real-world comprehension.
Addison Gumbert
Founder
Premier Clinical Marketing
Addison Gumbert is a communications and marketing strategist with over 15 years of experience leading omni-channel campaigns for health, research, and mission-driven brands. Her expertise spans public engagement, event experience design, corporate communications, digital strategy, and community-centered messaging. Through her work with nonprofits and industry partners, Addison has helped translate complex clinical research concepts into accessible language and formats that resonate with diverse audiences. She specializes in designing campaigns and materials that build long-term trust, not just conversions—emphasizing clarity, dignity, and inclusion over recruitment metrics. Addison brings a cross-sector perspective to advancing health literacy and awareness through intentional, equity-forward outreach.
Approved for 1.0 ACRP Contact Hours
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