Relationships in the Current Landscape
How important are relationships when it comes to efficiently managing clinical trials?
While Applied Clinical Trials covers many themes throughout the calendar year, it seems as if the common denominator is typically data. As I wrote in this space last month, our editor Andy Studna attended the 13th annual DPHARM: Disruptive Innovations to Modernize Clinical Research conference in Boston in September. Unsurprisingly, the main theme was innovations—specifically clinical trial solutions. Of course, there were many such innovations on display that focused on data collection. How does all of this data-talk fit into our November issue, which focuses on contract research organization (CRO) and sponsor relationships? In the new world order of multiple vendors in the clinical trials space, there are more solutions available, more methods of collecting data; more of everything it seems. How are CROs and sponsors handling all of this and how are they keeping the quality of data in check? That's the prevailing question we explore in this issue.
Speaking of collecting data, Studna recently returned from Barcelona, Spain, where he covered the SCOPE Europe conference. Coverage, including video footage of a panel he moderated on electronic clinical outcome assessment, can be found on our conference coverage page.
The first of our November feature articles focuses on new CRO/sponsor partnership and outsourcing models that have gained popularity in recent years. These arrangements have added even more complexity to what I mentioned above. To tackle these dynamics, CROs and sponsors are creating strategic relationships that emphasize a shared partnership culture and operational strategy. The article explores approaches in managing these partnerships. Our next feature also examines this relationship evolution, but provides a unique cautionary look at the 11 key "warning signs" to watch for that could impact CRO/sponsor success. Rounding out our trio of November features on this theme is an article on streamlining clinical trials. With all of the new challenges CROs and sponsors are facing, service providers can step in to help with the goal of creating efficient and more patient-focused trials.
Thank you for reading.
Mike Hennessy Jr, President and CEO, MJH Life Sciences®
Behind the Buzz: Why Clinical Research Leaders Flock to SCOPE Summit
February 7th 2025In this episode, we meet with Micah Lieberman, Executive Conference Director for SCOPE Summit (Summit for Clinical Ops Executives) at Cambridge Innovation Institute. We will dive deep into the critical role of collaboration within the clinical research ecosystem. How do we bring together diverse stakeholders—sponsors, CROs, clinical trial tech innovators, suppliers, patients, sites, advocacy organizations, investors, and non-profits—to share best practices in trial design, program planning, innovation, and clinical operations? We’ll explore why it’s vital for thought leaders to step beyond their own organizations and learn from others, exchanging ideas that drive advancements in clinical research. Additionally, we’ll discuss the pivotal role of scientific conferences like SCOPE Summit in fostering these essential connections and collaborations, helping shape the future of clinical trials. Join us as we uncover how collective wisdom and cross-industry partnerships are transforming the landscape of clinical research.
The Importance of Real-World Evidence in Medical Research and Drug Development
February 18th 2025The ongoing evolution of real-world evidence from a novel concept to a cornerstone of modern medical research signifies its growing importance and vast potential to improve personalized medicine, overall healthcare outcomes, and eventually democratization of scientific facts by general accessibility.
Reaching Diverse Patient Populations With Personalized Treatment Methods
January 20th 2025Daejin Abidoye, head of solid tumors, oncology development, AbbVie, discusses a number of topics around diversity in clinical research including industry’s greatest challenges in reaching diverse patient populations, personalized treatment methods, recruitment strategies, and more.
