Abstract
Background
In 2016, we had 11 new clinical trials, but they enrolled relatively few subjects. Therefore, more proactive efforts to increase the number of subjects are necessary. We considered constructing a network with affiliated hospitals. However, few affiliate hospitals were conducting clinical trials, which made it important for the doctors in affiliated hospitals to participate in a fruitful partnership. We report here on our experience building a novel network using the framework of clinical departments that already collaborate in medical examinations with affiliated hospitals.
Methods
We 1) determined the structure, objectives, and methods for the network-building activity, 2) selected clinical departments, 3) held explanatory meetings with investigators from affiliated hospitals, 4) prepared a policy and procedure manual, and 5) signed confidentiality agreements. The network began in June 2017.
Results
The purpose of this network was to activate the clinical trials at our hospital and affiliated hospitals, strengthen relationships already established via medical examination collaborations, and raise the level of regional medicine. Our hospital joined an industry-initiated clinical trial in psychiatry. Information about the trial, such as inclusion criteria and study design, were shared in the network under the confidentiality agreement. Four subjects were referred to our hospital from affiliated hospitals that were not participating in clinical trials, but the subjects could not be enrolled in this clinical trial due to deviations from inclusion criteria (inadequate screening tests). The latest information about an academic conference was shared by email. A training session is planned in 2018.
Conclusions
This network was able to be constructed quickly because it grew out of a framework of clinical departments that already collaborated with affiliated hospitals and there were existing relationships between physicians. Although the potential subjects referred could not be enrolled in the clinical trial, a certain level of clinical trial activation was achieved. Furthermore, it was helpful in raising the level of regional medical care via sharing of the latest information.
