Oncology clinical trials can be scientifically, operationally, and emotionally complex. With continued growth and innovation in the global cancer space, sponsors must ensure their development programs have the best possible chance of success.
Selecting an oncology-focused clinical research organization (CRO) provides several compelling benefits over a general provider. This article outlines why a specialized oncology CRO should be in your consideration set for 2024.
Dedicated and Specialized Oncology CRO Teams
A key advantage of an oncology CRO is the caliber and specialization of the entire project management team, not just the leadership roles. Unlike general CROs, where experienced leaders might be assigned to oncology studies as a necessity, specialized oncology CROs ensure that the whole team—clinical research associates, data managers to statistics and beyond—possesses deep therapeutic backgrounds with years of directly relevant oncology trial expertise. This comprehensive experience translates into:
- Project-based teams purpose-built around specific tumor types or modalities, ensuring consistency, deeper therapeutic understanding, and stronger motivation across the trial.
- Proactive risk mitigation strategies tailored to specific cancer types, thanks to a singular disease focus that cultivates true subject matter experts.
- Significant efficiencies and less rework later on, as the team understands the nuances of oncology trials from the outset.
Infrastructure and Processes Optimized for Oncology
An oncology CRO brings operational infrastructure expressly designed for the unique needs of cancer trials, including:
- Robust data capture capabilities for tracking wide-ranging efficacy signals and managing complex adverse event profiles.
- Innovative cohort management systems and specialized modules for adaptive dose escalation and novel combination regimens.
- Project management plans that incorporate additional time for stringent patient screening, backup enrollment strategies, and scenario planning around evolving standards of care.
- A very focused approach on start-up, selecting the right sites, and activating them quickly to put the sponsor ahead of the clinical curve with other competing therapies.
Extensive Scientific and Therapeutic Depth
Beyond operational expertise, the project team supporting a sponsor’s trial offers invaluable oncology acumen. This expertise is not confined within the team; leaders at specialized oncology CROs share their insights and expertise directly with sponsors. Being accessible to sponsors allows for real-time advice and guidance, 5sazxenhancing the trial’s success. This depth includes:
- Oncology-focused Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) who know the sites, the Principal Investigators (PIs), and their processes to ensure effective startup, data collection, and ongoing study involvement.
- Medical Monitors and safety physicians identifying trends across drug classes and ensuring protocol continuity.
- Retention of institutional knowledge thanks to retention rates well above industry averages.
- Expertise maximizing data generation from samples with optimized sample collection, management, and analysis.
- Commercialization support as your study moves from early phases, to ensure clinical validity and commercial uptake.
Early Awareness of Cutting-Edge Innovations
Leading oncology CROs maintain their expertise by engaging with consortia, advocacy groups, academia, and industry events. This involvement provides early insights into trial design innovations and evolving standards of care, which can be rapidly incorporated into client programs.
No Learning Curve, No Ramp-Up Time
The staff of an oncology CRO, from CRA to clinical trial manager (CTM), arrive fluent in the language of clinical cancer research. Their extensive experience across modalities, tumor types, and phases means no on-boarding or ramp-up time, allowing teams to dive into trial execution from day one.
Patient Centricity Baked In
An organization-wide emphasis on patient centricity means recognizing that cancer patients and their families are more than just data points. An oncology CRO brings specialized understanding around patient enrollment and retention, reducing patient burden and ensuring continuity in the face of emerging safety findings.
The Right Oncology CRO Partner for the Path Ahead
As immuno-oncology combinations, targeted therapies, and personalized approaches advance cancer R&D, selecting the right oncology focused CRO partner is more crucial than ever. Such a partner offers unmatched expertise and experience, ensuring that development programs—and the patients they aim to benefit—receive the best possible support.
