When looking for the right trial site for their study, clinical sponsors need a number of specific measures and conditions that will ensure greatest value for them. Enrolling requirements must be met, but more importantly the most rigorous safety and quality standards must be upheld. A site that meets all these requirements is highly sought-after, as doing so would allow for a reduction of the number of sites needed per trial and swifter trial start-up times. 

Independent sites are a rising solution for payers in the trial space. These sites have proven over the last few years that they can consistently recruit more patients within their practices or independent databases than traditional sites. They are also able, due to their smaller size and more agile processes, to set up trials more quickly than hospitals or academic medical centres (AMCs) can. 

What are Independent Clinical Trial Sites?

Clinical trials are generally conducted either at academic sites (typically found in hospitals or AMCs) or at independent ones. Independent sites are generally more dedicated to clinical trial work, given that no time need be split between research and daily practice in a clinic. 

Because of their significant speed and patient-focus benefits, independent sites have become increasingly sought-after by CROs and sponsors due to their additional enrolment abilities and swifter start-up times. While competitor sites in hospitals of AMCs can potentially take more than 90 days for start-up and recruitment, independent sites can perform these functions in half the time.