Q&A: Redefining Clinical Trials Through Community-Based Dermatology

In a recent interview with Dermatology Times, Jorge Garcia-Zuazaga, MD, MBA, FAAD, FACMS, discussed how Apex Skin and Apex Clinical Research Center are redefining access to dermatology trials through a community-based model. As founder and CEO, Garcia-Zuazaga highlighted the importance of representation, patient access, and real-world applicability in research. He also shared how Apex Skin's multisite network, bilingual staff, and collaborative partnerships are helping bring innovative dermatologic therapies to more diverse patient populations across Ohio and beyond.

Q: What gaps in dermatology research is Apex Skin uniquely positioned to fill?

A: Apex is uniquely positioned to fill several key gaps in dermatology research, especially around representation, accessibility, and real-world applicability. Many dermatology studies have historically lacked diversity in patient populations, leading to data that doesn't always reflect the needs of all communities. Through its broad network of community-based practices, Apex can recruit more diverse participants across age, ethnicity, skin type, and socioeconomic status. Additionally, being embedded in everyday clinical settings allows Apex to bring research to underrepresented populations who might not otherwise have access to academic research centers—helping generate more inclusive, real-world data that can drive better patient outcomes.

Q: How does the multisite model at Apex Skin improve trial execution compared with single-site practices?

A: The multisite model at Apex offers scalability, consistency, and speed. By running trials across a network of aligned dermatology practices, Apex can standardize trial protocols and best practices, ensuring quality and compliance across all sites. This model allows for faster patient enrollment, more robust data collection, and greater geographic diversity, which strengthens study outcomes. It also allows trial sponsors to work with a single centralized operational hub while benefiting from the reach and trust of local providers—a major advantage over traditional single-site models.

Q: With over 20,000 patients a month across clinics, how does Apex Skin balance clinical care with research recruitment to best serve patients?

A: Apex integrates research seamlessly into the patient care journey. Our providers are trained to identify research opportunities that align with patient needs during routine clinical visits, ensuring that trials are offered as an extension of care—not a disruption. Dedicated research coordinators and support teams handle the logistical and regulatory aspects, allowing clinicians to focus on patient relationships. By maintaining this balance, we not only improve access to cutting-edge treatments but also build trust with patients, who see research as a natural part of their care, not a separate or burdensome process.

Q: What effect have bilingual staff and culturally tailored communication had on patient satisfaction and retention?

A: Bilingual staff and culturally competent communication are essential in building trust, improving trial adherence, and reducing dropout rates. Patients are far more likely to participate and remain in a study when they feel heard, respected, and understood. Apex prioritizes culturally tailored outreach and employs multilingual staff to bridge gaps in understanding, especially in communities where language and cultural differences have historically been barriers to research participation. This not only improves patient satisfaction but also supports equity in access to care and representation in research.

Q: What innovations in trial design or technology will have the most impact on dermatology research in the next 5 years?

A: Decentralized and hybrid trial models, enabled by digital tools like eConsent, remote monitoring, and teledermatology, are set to transform dermatology research. These approaches reduce the burden on patients by minimizing the need for in-person visits and make it easier to collect real-time, real-world data. Additionally, AI-powered diagnostic tools and image-based analytics can accelerate both patient identification and outcome assessments. Apex is well positioned to adopt and scale these innovations through its integrated clinical and research infrastructure, helping trials become more patient-centric and efficient.

Q: How do you see Apex Skin collaborating with community dermatologists outside your network to expand research access?

A: Apex is committed to building bridges with independent and community dermatologists who may not have the infrastructure to run trials themselves but want to offer research opportunities to their patients. We collaborate by providing access to trials through referral partnerships. This helps extend the reach of research into more communities without requiring providers to fully shift into a research-based model. By working together, we can enhance access to cutting-edge dermatologic therapies and ensure more patients benefit from the latest innovations in care.

Q: What final message would you like to share with colleagues about clinical trial research?

A: I would say that anyone considering clinical trials should know it can be a great addition to their practice. However, it’s not something that can be done casually or “on the side.” You can’t just dedicate an hour a week and expect meaningful results—clinical research requires real commitment, time, and energy because there are so many moving parts.

For those interested, I highly encourage you to pursue it. Conducting clinical trials keeps you at the forefront of new technologies and emerging therapies. It elevates you as a physician by keeping you current with the latest advancements, and it also enhances your practice by allowing you to offer patients access to innovative treatments.