“Growing Adoption of Decentralized Clinical Trials”
- Decentralized clinical trials enable patients to participate from home or local healthcare facilities, reducing the need for frequent visits to central research sites, which improves convenience for participants
- For instance, Pfizer's remote trials during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed patients to participate in vaccine studies without needing to visit the trial site
- These trials leverage technology such as telemedicine, wearable devices, and digital platforms to monitor patients, collect data, and maintain communication, allowing real-time tracking of patient health
- For instance, Eli Lilly used wearable devices to monitor patients remotely in its clinical trials for diabetes medication
- The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of decentralized clinical trials as the healthcare industry adjusted to ensure continuity
- For instance, Moderna conducted remote trials for their COVID-19 vaccine development, using telehealth and at-home monitoring to track vaccine recipients while maintaining safety and reducing exposure risks
- Decentralized trials have increased patient access, especially in rural or underserved areas, by eliminating the barriers of traveling long distances to clinical sites
- For instance, AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine trials utilized virtual consultations and home delivery of medications, allowing patients in remote locations to stay engaged in the trial
- Pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations are now adopting hybrid models, combining traditional site-based trials with decentralized methods
- For instance, Novartis has incorporated decentralized elements into its ongoing global trials for oncology treatments, allowing patients in remote areas to participate while still adhering to trial protocols
