How Remote Pharmacy Monitoring Strengthens Compliance and Streamlines Clinical Trial Operations

By Rachael Aletti, Pharm.D.

Remote monitoring has become a transformative practice for Investigational Drug Services (IDS) pharmacies, enabling more efficient oversight of investigational product (IP) accountability while reducing the operational burden of traditional on-site visits. This white paper explores how research pharmacies are leveraging electronic drug accountability systems, eSource platforms, and risk-based monitoring approaches to strengthen compliance, improve documentation quality, and maintain audit readiness. By providing real-time visibility into inventory, dispensing records, temperature logs, and accountability documentation, remote and hybrid monitoring models help IDS teams streamline workflows, enhance collaboration with sponsors and monitors, and identify issues earlier. The paper also outlines practical best practices for implementing remote monitoring programs that support regulatory expectations, improve operational efficiency, and ensure consistent oversight of IP management throughout the clinical trial lifecycle.