Blog

Clinical research training for research-naïve staff members can successfully enhance clinical trial–readiness at community cancer centers, according to the findings of a recent collaboration between Roche/Genentech, the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC), and the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). 

Long-standing concerns over if, when, and how to compensate clinical trial participants for the time and effort they put into studies are akin to a “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” dilemma for many research practitioners. 

Community engagement is an important step in increasing diversity in clinical trial enrollment. Engagement involves a conversation with members of the community, with a goal of building trust by being of service in ways most important to that community. This should happen long before any discussion about clinical research or a specific trial, meeting individuals where they are and understanding—and helping address—their needs and concerns.  

With a focus on prioritizing patient and investigator needs, the traditional sponsor-contract research organization relationship is evolving to include sites as part of the partnership matrix. This, combined with the increasing adoption of Functional Service Provider delivery models, has made determining the right balance of control and accountability for each party a critical factor in successful outsourcing partnerships.  

As Chief Clinical Trial Officer at Florence Healthcare, Catherine Gregor has the privilege of collaborating with research sites, sponsors, and CROs on the frontlines of clinical trial operations. Every day, she witnesses the dedication and innovation required to bring new treatments to patients swiftly and safely. However, the recent announcement of significant workforce reductions at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) poses a substantial threat to this progress.