This presentation will introduce REACH BC, an initiative of Clinical Trials British Columbia, part of Health Research BC. REACH BC is a provincial platform that connects British Columbians with opportunities to participate in clinical trials and health research. The team will share how the platform works, the types of studies researchers can recruit for, how REACH BC broadens and diversifies study recruitment, and how the platform reaches those in rural communities. The session will also highlight how REACH BC enables researchers to share their study results, empowers the public to navigate research information, understand data use in studies, and contribute meaningfully to BC’s research ecosystem.

As part of this session, we will also highlight our collaboration with Genome BC’s Health Metadata Commons (HMC). Through this partnership, both organizations are exploring ways to improve researcher access and streamline navigation between platforms, supporting a more connected and efficient research environment in British Columbia.

What you'll learn in this session: 

  • Understand how REACH BC functions as a recruitment and engagement platform for clinical trials and health research.

  • Learn about REACH BC’s approach to privacy, data governance, and security for both volunteers and researchers and how that ties into our collaboration with Health Metadata Commons.

  • Learn about considerations and approaches for supporting volunteers and diverse communities within provincial recruitment efforts.

  • Recognize how REACH BC supports researchers in finding participants and how volunteers engage with study information, patient partner opportunities and results.

About Our SpeakerS

Michelle Chen
Platform Administrator, REACH BC

Michelle is the Platform Administrator for REACH BC, responsible for supporting researchers and volunteers using the platform. She oversees the optimization of the REACH BC site, including user experience and interface design, platform maintenance, and ongoing developments. Michelle’s work ensures the platform is user-friendly, accessible, and effective in connecting the public with health research opportunities across British Columbia.
Michelle Chen

Justine Clayton
Coordinator, REACH BC

Justine is the Coordinator for REACH BC, supporting the program’s operations and helping connect the public with health research opportunities across British Columbia. She assists with program initiatives, managing administrative tasks, project coordination and contributes to educational resources and community events. Justine’s work helps ensure a smooth experience for both participants and researchers engaging with the REACH BC platform.
Justine Clayton