According to the 2016 Summit Site Landscape Survey, which was conducted by the Society for Clinical Research Sites, the majority of clinical sites aren’t feeling the love from sponsors and CROs.
Of the 463 survey respondents, only 31% felt their relationship with sponsors had improved in the past two years, and only 25% felt that way about their CRO partners. In fact, 39% felt their relationships with CROs had become less partner-like. These numbers suggest that site relationships is a BIG area of opportunity for sponsors and CROs.
When asked about the key impacts on site sustainability, respondents indicated the following:
- Lack of study opportunities
- Uncompensated activity
- Staffing
- Cash flow
- Recruitment
- Prices paid for services
While sites feel disconnected from and/or unsupported by their partners, and under-valued for their services to those partners, the success of clinical trials is at risk. This survey found that, in an attempt to improve the situation, several organizations have created roles that are dedicated to managing sponsor/CRO-site relationships. However, this change alone is clearly not enough.
The survey also discovered that sites are required to use an average of 10 different IT systems to manage a single study, resulting in 38% of sites reporting that technology has actually made them less efficient. Sites need a more user-friendly, streamlined technology experience to be able to do what they do best: care for patients.
If you are a sponsor or CRO looking to become a better partner to sites, fill out the “contact us” form below to learn ideas for how to improve your site relationships.
