Parexel’s Patient Advisory Council are integral to the delivery of its clinical trials and provide a continuous forum to integrate their experiences and perceptions of clinical trials with current industry best practices in order to shape future trial design and execution, stated Sanjay Vyas, executive vice president and managing director, Parexel.
Parexel added data gathered through initiatives such as Parexel Site Advisory Council has helped them innovate and further implement newer practices such as decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) and is organized through an industry initiative led by Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS).
"Many sponsors are becoming more open to DCTs as they work to maintain patient safety and data quality, and we are working closely with sites and members of our Patient Advisory Council to ensure that site and patient insights are top of mind as we make this shift from traditional trials to a more remote, home-based approach. By supporting patient access to and experiences in clinical trials through such initiatives, we expect benefits such as increased likelihood of launch, enhanced patient experience, positive perception of the company and the wider industry," added Vyas,
Vyas added it deploy tools such as patient transportation support, clear and simple education materials to help patients fully understand their options and virtual trial capabilities to allow them to participate from their homes via a combination of technology, such as sensors, and in-home healthcare support. This can reduce the practical, geographical and financial barriers to participation, opening up trial opportunities to a larger, more diverse patient population. It also makes the trial experience more positive and keeps patients motivated and engaged.
Vyas further added, “The key to success in moving to a decentralised approach is prioritising trial standards and consistency to ensure patient safety.”
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