Local researcher champions health equity through innovative patient outreach
In the heart of Alabama, Druss Hays is transforming clinical research through creativity and compassion. As a Clinical Research Coordinator for the Forge AHEAD Center FREEDOM Study, Hays employs thoughtful strategies to connect with patients, particularly those often excluded from traditional clinical research. His work highlights the intersection of meticulous planning and a deep commitment to health equity, guided by the leadership of study MPI, Tapan Mehta, Ph.D., and Program Director, Aseel El Zein, Ph.D., RDN in UAB’s Department of Family and Community Medicine.
Breaking Down Barriers
For Hays, recruitment begins with genuine connection. He meticulously reviews patient lists from clinics, while also scanning upcoming primary care appointments to identify potential candidates. Yet, his methods are rooted in more than strategy—they reflect a deep respect for patients’ time and circumstances.
“I find the best results start with calling patients after receiving invite letters,” Hays explained. “The people we reach out to directly meet our criteria to the best of our knowledge. When it comes to recruitment, I have to dedicate as much time as possible to finding the people we need.”
Druss Hays
Clinical Research Coordinator
Family and Community Medicine
UAB Heersink School of Medicine
Hays’ commitment is driven by a deep personal passion rather than a sense of obligation.” “Throughout my life, it was always a priority for my career to have a positive influence on something important. I wouldn’t work as hard as I do now if my labor was just to sell a product.”
Overcoming Access Challenges
Hays understands that access is a significant barrier, particularly for patients in underrepresented or rural communities. Transportation issues often pose major challenges. “Sometimes they don’t have a car at all or can only borrow one at certain times. I’ve had patients report their car was stolen or had ongoing issues with reliability,” he said.
To address these hurdles for participants, Hays implemented practical solutions such as leveraging rideshares like Uber Health to provide rides at no-cost to study visits. For participants, unable to travel to Birmingham, he established partnerships with LabCorp, enabling them to complete necessary tests closer to home.
“For people who live in areas too far away for an in-person visit, we use LabCorp,” Hays said. “But even then, some have to cross state lines to get to a location. That’s a tough ask, and it often leads to people opting out.”
Building Trust and Retaining Engagement
While recruitment is critical, Hays also excels in retention—a vital component for long-term studies like FREEDOM. His efforts center on personalized communication, ensuring participants feel valued and supported throughout their involvement.
“I enjoy engaging with participants,” he said. “It’s a great experience when I find someone motivated about their participation. It feels good knowing they’ve gained access to a beneficial resource because of my outreach.”
“Continuing in my career, I will always focus on research that benefits marginalized people.”
Hays emphasizes the importance of consistent follow-up. “It can be difficult to contact some participants, but I make notes after every call attempt to prioritize reaching them when they’re available. It’s small things like this that improve retention.”
Looking Ahead
As he continues to build bridges between research and marginalized communities, Hays reflects on the larger impact of his work. “For the future, I’d like to see more financial incentives for participants. Even a small increase in compensation over time could encourage continued participation.”
Hays is also preparing to take his passion for health equity to the next level. He is applying to Ph.D. programs to study social psychology, with plans to explore how systemic barriers shape health outcomes. “Continuing in my career, I will always focus on research that benefits marginalized people,” he said.
A Model for Health Equity
Hays’s approach to patient outreach and retention embodies the mission of the Forge AHEAD Center: dismantling barriers in health research in the Deep South. His innovative strategies, coupled with his empathy and determination, ensure that underrepresented voices are centered in clinical studies.
“I want to have a positive influence on something important,” Hays reiterated. With his track record and vision for the future, it’s clear he is doing just that.
