In the dynamic landscape of clinical trials, the importance of clinical research sites cannot be understated. Sites serve as the interface between sponsors, investigators, patients, and regulators, playing a pivotal role in the successful execution of clinical trials globally.
“Based on my 25 years of experience, I know that sites are our number one partner.”
– Rosie Filling
At YPrime’s Innovation Network Gathering, Rosalie ‘Rosie’ Filling, Vice President and Senior Global Head of R&D Operations at Endo International, shed light on the significance of sites in the clinical research landscape. With extensive experience working for CROs, biotech, and pharma companies—alongside her perspective as a clinical trial participant herself—Rosie offers practical tips to become sites’ sponsor of choice going forward.
Clinical research sites serve as the backbone of the clinical trial ecosystem, acting as the cornerstone where groundbreaking therapies are rigorously evaluated and ultimately brought to market. These sites encompass a diverse array of settings, ranging from academic medical centers and hospitals to private clinics and research organizations. Their primary function is to facilitate the seamless execution of clinical trials by recruiting eligible participants, administering investigational treatments, collecting data, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. But with staffing constraints (many sites are working at 60% resource capacity) as well as technology and system burdens, sites face many challenges. Becoming more and more selective, sites need sponsors who can cater to their needs.
Recognizing the critical role of sites in driving trial success, Rosie underscores the importance of investing in site support and infrastructure. This involves offering comprehensive training, resources, and logistical support to enable sites to efficiently conduct trials, as well as involving sites in system selection and testing. By alleviating administrative burdens and streamlining processes, sponsors can foster a conducive environment for site excellence and pave the way for a brighter future.
*This discussion is the opinion of the speaker and not of Endo Pharmaceuticals.
Innovation and quality are at the core of everything we do as an industry to improve clinical trials. That’s why every year, we host the Innovation Network Gathering—a forum for brilliant minds from various backgrounds to come together to engage in thought-provoking discourse that sparks new opportunities for growth and change.