Editorial Perspectives On Decentralized Trials

1. 7 Steps To Manage Local HCPs In A Decentralized Trial 4/17/2025

   Here’s a template you can use for a multi-step process to create a centralized system to verify the credentials, licenses, and professional standing of all local healthcare professionals (HCPs) participating in a DCT.

2. Local HCPs in DCTs: Big Benefits, Bigger Burdens? 4/17/2025

   Local HCPs in DCTs provide benefits like improved patient accessibility, retention, and diversity, but create significant oversight burdens for investigators and sponsors, requiring extensive documentation, training protocols, and communication systems to maintain compliance.

3. Were There Any Surprises In Clinical Trials In 2024? 12/4/2024

   Is it any surprise that when I asked a group of clinical trial industry experts to summarize some of the things that stood out to them in 2024, that AI would be mentioned more than once? Probably not. Resistance to DCTs, increasing regulatory scrutiny, and a slowdown in CRO M&As also made their lists — but I’m guessing none of that surprises you, either.

4. Not A Bad First Year 11/11/2024

   Dan Schell, chief Editor or Clinical Leader, summarizes his first year in this role and highlights some of his key takeaways and lists some of the people who have helped him better understand the clinical trials ecosystem. 

5. Government Contract Advances Walgreens In Clinical Space 8/1/2024

   Walgreen’s new $25 million deal with BARDA (Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority) is a huge win for the pharmacy chain. John Campbell, head of DCTs at Walgreens, explains the ins and outs of the study and what could be next for the company regarding its clinical trials division.

6. Siteless DCTs Are Real … And Happening Now 6/20/2024

   Siteless DCTs (decentralized trials) are rare, but Praxis Precision Medicines is running one now for patients with essential tremor (ET). Marcio Souza, PharmD, the company’s president and CEO, talks about why they chose this model and the surprising speed at which it is progressing.

7. For Hybrid Trials, Have Some Faith … In Sites 5/9/2024

   Noelle Gaskill believes the key to regulatory success with a DCT is to not force a bunch of tech onto sites, but instead, choose those that already have the needed technology and experience and then let them do what they do best – execute on the trial.

8. Why Jane Myles Believes DCTs Are "Completely Doable" 3/27/2024

   If you want to know about how perceptions regarding DCTs are changing, talk with Jane Myles of the DTRA (Decentralized Trials & Research Alliance). As Program Director at DTRA, she is acutely aware of all the challenges and opportunities surrounding anything with the term “decentralized trial.”

9. Ramblings From A First-Time SCOPE Attendee 2/15/2024

   Dan Schell, chief editor of Clinical Leader, discusses what sessions stood out to him and some of the KOLs he rubbed elbows with while attending his first SCOPE Summit. 

10. How BMS Uses AI To Improve Study Design And Reduce Costs 1/19/2023

    In 2022, Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) announced plans to work with AI developer Owkin to design and optimize cardiovascular drug trials. The partnership will allow BMS to use machine learning to enhance clinical trial design and execution.