SCRS Talks artwork

SCRS Talks

139 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 days ago -

SCRS Talks is a platform for sites to hear about valuable information from The Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) members and partners. These short interviews will provide insight into key industry topics, current events, new perspectives, and exciting opportunities.

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Episodes

Beyond Numbers: Revolutionizing Clinical Trial Budgeting

April 22, 2024 12:00 - 18 minutes - 12.5 MB

Learn how dynamic benchmarks are shaping the future of clinical trial finances, offering adaptability, transparency, and stronger relationships between sponsors, CROs, and research sites. Shelley Douros, the Senior Director of Clinical Trial Financial Management, and Tina Mincher, the Director of Client Strategy at Medidata share their revolutionary CAP approach (Committed, Anticipated, and Projected) that is transforming how budgets are approached. Tune in to learn how to ensure fair market...

Navigating eConsent: What to Know for Successful Adoption

April 15, 2024 12:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

Dawn Strelow and Vinita Navadgi from IQVIA Technologies explore how the clinical research industry is revolutionizing patient consent. Dawn, the Associate Director of Client Engagement, and Vinita, the Senior Director of the Digital Patient Suite, discuss the nuances of eConsent and challenges faced by clinical research sites, including practical solutions and steps for successful eConsent adoption. 

Volunteerism in Action: Empowering Sites & the Rewards of Volunteering

April 08, 2024 12:00 - 15 minutes - 10.7 MB

Anne-Marie Baughn, Director of Business Development with RxTrials, shares the invaluable benefits of strategic partnerships and volunteering in the clinical research industry. Anne-Marie sheds light on RxTrials' unique approach to empowering smaller research sites, emphasizing quality in study conduct and research site management over sheer size. 

Kits4Life’s Exponential Growth in Global Health and Sustainability

April 01, 2024 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

In this episode, explore the extraordinary journey of Kits4Life with Lori Warrens, Director of the MedSurplus Alliance. Kits4Life is a cross-sector initiative developed by the clinical research community to repurpose clinical trial supplies, lab kits, and equipment to close the healthcare gap worldwide. Lori shares the program's inspiring growth and impact on a global scale, from its humble beginnings to becoming a driving force in healthcare sustainability. Gain insights into the challenges...

Building Strong Partnerships: Parexel's Commitment to Research Sites

March 25, 2024 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.81 MB

Karen McIntyre, Vice President of Site Alliances at Parexel, shares the impact and initiatives that contributed to their earning of the coveted SCRS Eagle Award in 2023. Hear valuable advice for industry organizations aspiring to build successful relationships with sites through the power of communication, trust, and shared goals. Karen also sheds light on Parexel's strategies to continually enhance and expand its site-focused efforts. 

Beyond the Diagnosis: Clinical Trial Advocacy & ALS

March 15, 2024 11:00 - 15 minutes - 10.7 MB

Hear the inspiring story of Larry Falivena, an ALS patient advocate, who shares his journey through his ALS diagnosis and navigating clinical trials. Larry's diagnosis in 2017 marked a profound shift in his life, prompting him to cherish each moment and advocate for ALS awareness. Despite the grim prognosis, Larry's engagement in clinical trials offers hope for ALS patients. Hear the emotional and logistical hurdles often faced by ALS patients in accessing and engaging with clinical trials a...

Award-Winning Approaches to Inclusive Clinical Research

March 11, 2024 12:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MB

Hear the award-winning community engagement strategy of Ascension St. John Clinical Research Institute as Stacie Merritt and Dr. Jane Bryce share insights on their successful approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical research. Discover how their innovative BRIDGE framework, commitment to health literacy, and continuous presence have led to meaningful results within their community. Tune in for valuable advice on overcoming diversity recruitment challenges and fostering collabo...

Inclusive Trial Blueprint: Paving the Way for Equitable Research

March 04, 2024 16:00 - 20 minutes - 14.2 MB

Hear from Dr. Otis Johnson, Co-Founder of Trial Equity Group, as we explore the critical issue of patient diversity in clinical trials. Dr. Johnson discusses the alarming underrepresentation revealed in recent research, and shares how Trial Equity is addressing this gap. Join the conversation to uncover the impact of diverse recruitment on trial efficiency, the positive trends in technology, and the future of inclusive clinical research.

Beyond Buzzwords: Celebrating Excellence in Patient Centricity

February 26, 2024 13:00 - 23 minutes - 16 MB

Nick Spittal, Chief Operations Officer at Velocity Clinical Research, and Pat Roselle, Global Head of Patient Stakeholder Engagement at Sanofi are here to celebrate Velocity's win of the 2023 Excellence in Patient Centricity Award sponsored by Sanofi. Hear insights from Velocity and Sanofi on the importance of patient-centricity and the initiatives that led to this award. Plus, we'll explore the future goals of both Sanofi and Velocity in advancing clinical research with a patient-focused ap...

Navigating Challenges in Clinical Research Staffing

February 19, 2024 13:00 - 23 minutes - 16.5 MB

Michele Cameron, Director of Clinical Research at Clearwater Cardiovascular Consultants, and Lindsey Morales, Associate Director of Clinical Site Partnerships at Gilead Sciences, share insights from a recent SCRS survey on clinical research site workforce challenges. Learn about the significant turnover rates for patient-facing staff and obstacles in recruiting and training new coordinators. Lindsey and Michele share actionable steps for the industry to better support site partners, includi...

Site Solutions Spotlight: Oncology Summit Preview

February 12, 2024 13:00 - 12 minutes - 8.95 MB

Peter Fredette, VP of Research Services at Outcomes Matter Innovations, and Jolee Holt, Director of Oncology Site Community, Optimal Research at PPD, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, give you a sneak peek into the  SCRS Oncology Site Solutions Summit. Peter and Jolee share insights into what attendees can expect, exciting new topics and speakers you won't want to miss, and how to maximize your experience. Join us at the Oncology Summit to share your experience and tackle challenges in oncol...

Site Buzz: Document Storage & Record Retention

February 05, 2024 13:00 - 20 minutes - 13.9 MB

David Vulcano, Vice President of Research Compliance at HCA Healthcare and Honorary President of SCRS, discusses the challenges clinical research sites face in document storage and record retention amid evolving regulations. Hear considerations for sponsors pushing record storage obligations onto sites, advising them to listen to sites' concerns and avoid binding contracts. David also provides insights for sites as well as solutions for sponsors, CROs and sites to move forward with record re...

Turning Feedback into Action: Enhancing Site Partnerships

January 29, 2024 13:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MB

Join us as we explore how AbbVie is turning feedback into action, introducing process efficiencies and enhancing communication with site partners. Sasha Tyndale, Director of Patient Engagement and Inclusion Solutions at AbbVie,  shares valuable insights and actions taken from AbbVie's annual global site feedback survey.  Hear about AbbVie's dedication to being a responsive and collaborative sponsor and how they are fostering stronger site partnerships. 

The State of Sample Management

January 22, 2024 13:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MB

Ethan Seville, Manager of Customer Engagement and Strategic Solutions at Slope,  sheds light on the formidable challenges clinical research sites encounter with sample management. Tune in as we discuss the importance of proactive advocacy, crafting effective SOPs, and fostering inter-site collaboration. Ethan also explores evolving trends and changes in sample management and the exciting potential for future innovations in the field.

Site Cash Flow Strategies for Better Budgeting & Faster Payments

January 16, 2024 13:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

Carlos Orantes, CEO of Alcanza Clinical Research,  shares insights into modern-day budgets and payments at the site level and discusses the challenges faced by sites, including holdbacks and delayed payment terms. Carlos delves into the complexities of financial planning for sites, discussing the differences between revenue projections and cash flow forecasts. Carlos also provides valuable strategies for sites to encourage on-time payments, emphasizing clear communication, negotiation of pa...

AI in Action: Transforming Patient Recruitment in Clinical Trials

December 26, 2023 13:00 - 11 minutes - 8.09 MB

Andrea Chial, co-founder and COO of AlzWell, showcases their innovative AI platform for clinical trial matching which received the 2023 SCRS Site Tank Award. Hear the impact of streamlining site operations and helpful advice for sites interested in AI or technology implementation.  

Innovating Patient Recruitment: Winning Approaches

December 19, 2023 13:00 - 22 minutes - 15.3 MB

Todd Albin, CEO of Cedar Health Research, discusses the groundbreaking recruitment strategy that earned them the SCRS Site Patient Innovation Recruitment Award (SPRIA). Hear Cedar Health's integration of technology to pre-identify eligible patients in healthcare practices for a challenging study.  Albin emphasizes their comprehensive approach to diversity, highlighting the success of engaging diverse communities through a dedicated task force. Explore the synergy between site and industry p...

Breaking Barriers in Cancer Research & Care

December 06, 2023 16:00 - 18 minutes - 13.1 MB

Dr. Nadine Barrett, a medical sociologist, health disparities researcher, and President-elect of the Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC), joins us to discuss her remarkable journey and commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in cancer research. Dr. Barrett outlines her top priorities with ACCC, focusing on increasing diversity in oncology research and fostering honest, authentic community engagement. Be inspired by Dr. Barrett's transformative vision and work to e...

Site-Centric Strategies: Merck's Approach to Collaboration

November 28, 2023 13:00 - 25 minutes - 17.8 MB

This special episode spotlights Merck's site-focused initiatives and work that contributed to its designation as the 2023 SCRS Eagle Award sponsor of choice. Jennifer Sheller, VP & Head of Clinical Sites, Data Management & Quality discusses Merck's commitment to increasing trial access, supporting the next generation of research staff, and improving site-centricity. 

Meet Global Impact Partner: Tekton Research

November 08, 2023 13:00 - 16 minutes - 11.3 MB

Kip McKenzie, CEO of Tekton Research, shares the organization's evolution from a single site to a network of 25 sites, highlighting their commitment to professionalism and growth within the clinical research landscape.  Kip discusses the significance of site voices in driving successful clinical trials and their innovative personnel development strategies and highlights the Tekton University learning management system. Gain insights into their effective engagement with local universities fo...

Navigating Site Budgets with Inflation & The Great Resignation

November 01, 2023 12:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MB

Explore the ramifications of inflation and higher staff attrition  on the clinical research industry based on IQVIA's recent whitepaper, 'The Impact Of High Inflation And The Great Resignation On Clinical Site Budgeting.'  Sharon Gordon, former Director of Cost Benchmarking and Site Contracts, Trial Design & Site Engagement, and Morgan King, Manager of Data Analytics and Services at IQVIA Technologies share findings on escalating site costs over the past three years, as well as IQVIA's data...

The Unseen Side of Clinical Trials

October 25, 2023 12:00 - 22 minutes - 15.2 MB

 After working in the clinical research industry for decades, Jim Kremidas unexpectedly found himself on the other side – as a patient searching for a trial. Despite Jim's extensive experience and vast network, finding a trial proved more difficult than expected.  Many of us have not experienced a clinical trial from the patient's point of view. This enlightening episode discusses Jim's perspective as a trial participant, as well as advice for both patients and research professionals on how...

Inside the World of Clinical Research Project Management with ACRPM

October 17, 2023 12:00 - 20 minutes - 14.2 MB

Jess Thompson shares her journey in clinical research project management, shedding light on the mission of the Association of Clinical Research Project Managers (ACRPM) and its global support for professionals in the field. Jess outlines key aspects that research sites and the industry need to understand about clinical research project management and its impact on fostering innovation and excellence in healthcare practices. 

Behind the Scenes of SCRS' European Summit: What to Expect

October 09, 2023 12:00 - 18 minutes - 13 MB

Piotr Sawicki, SCRS European Summit chair, discusses why this event is a must-attend for global clinical research professionals. Hear about the sessions attendees can look forward to this year and listen in for essential tips to make the most of your experience. Join us for the 2023 European Site Solutions Summit being held from 13-14 November 2023 in Cascais, Portugal.

Partnerships & Impact: How Greater Gift Celebrates Clinical Trial Heroes

October 02, 2023 12:00 - 20 minutes - 14.2 MB

Joan Chambers, CEO of Greater Gift, shares insights on their mission to raise awareness about clinical trials, especially among underrepresented communities. Hear how Greater Gift uniquely honors clinical trial participants through donations to positively impact patient retention and engagement.  Joan also highlights the importance of partnerships and upcoming projects that are driving their mission forward.

Meet New Global Impact Partner: Accelerated Enrollment Solutions

September 25, 2023 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MB

Victor Lopes, VP of Medical Operations and Interim Head of Global Site Network at Accelerated Enrollment Solutions (AES) provides a glimpse into AES' mission and values, emphasizing their commitment to improving clinical trials globally. Hear about the vital work of AES' site enrollment optimization teams and valuable advice on fostering mutually beneficial collaborations. 

Sites of the Future: How to Be Technology-Forward

September 18, 2023 12:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MB

As sites navigate technology changes and advancements within the industry, they have to make important decisions about what solutions to adopt and how. What are common challenges that sites face when integrating new technologies? Lilith Hayakawa Mist, Executive Clinical Research Director at Merck, raises important considerations for sites with technology implementation, as discussed in a panel session at SCRS West.

Mastering Clinical Research Workforce Challenges

September 11, 2023 09:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MB

In a world where the demand for qualified research professionals is on the rise, training programs play a pivotal role in expanding and diversifying the talent pool. Kunal D. Patel,  Medical Director at iheed, will shed light on their recently launched Master of Science in Clinical Research program and how training programs are helping expand the clinical research workforce. 

Understanding the True Cost of Clinical Technology

September 04, 2023 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

Tune in to discover proven best practices that research sites can adopt to optimize their technology budgets. Kristin Surdam, Sr. Director, KOL & Strategy at Florence Healthcare, shares how these strategies not only ensure better resource allocation but also drive efficient research operations. Hear lessons learned from SCRS West: Clinical Tech & Innovation Summit, including strategies for sites and industry partners to overcome technology hurdles and ensure accurate financial planning in tr...

Global Summit Preview: Ignite the Possibilities

August 28, 2023 12:00 - 19 minutes - 13.2 MB

What's in store for the upcoming SCRS Global Site Solutions Summit this October? Get ready to "Ignite the Possibilities" as we share the inspiration behind this year's Summit theme of what it means for our community. Whether you're a seasoned attendee or gearing up for your first SCRS Summit, this episode is your gateway to the excitement, innovation, and boundless opportunities that await. We've got you covered with essential tips to make the most of your experience!

Empowering Diversity: Meet Latinos in Clinical Research

August 21, 2023 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12 MB

Ashley Margo, Sponsor CRA & Co-Founder of Latinos in Clinical Research (LCR), shares how her organization is supporting the Latinx community within the clinical research field. Learn about LCR's industry collaborations to promote representation and participation of underrepresented populations in the research profession, as well as the organization's goals and progress so far. 

Tech Transformation: Overcoming Challenges with Site-Level Integration

August 14, 2023 12:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MB

Technology integration and implementation remain challenging for many sites. We explored these topics further at SCRS West, where Lauren Stockwell, Director of Outreach & Engagement at Clinical Research Fastrack, participated in a panel on site-level technology integration and implementation. This episode dives into key takeaways from that session, including how to identify the right solutions, manage change and train staff. 

Collaboration for Health Equity: How Health Data For Good Leads the Way

August 07, 2023 19:00 - 12 minutes - 8.9 MB

Join Val Torres, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Partnerships Officer of Health Data For Good, as he shares how his organization is committed to addressing the complex healthcare needs of underserved communities. How are industry stakeholders working together to improve health equity and accelerate access to life-changing cures and treatments? Discover the power of collaboration and partnership as key principles driving Health Data For Good's mission. 

Meet SCRS Global Impact Partner: YPrime

August 02, 2023 12:00 - 13 minutes - 9.14 MB

Meet one of SCRS' newest Global Impact Partners, YPrime. YPrime is an eClinical systems provider offering cloud-based systems such as interactive response technology (IRT), electronic clinical outcome assessment (eCOA) and eConsent.  Mike Hughes, Chief Product Officer at YPrime, shares why they became a GIP, as well as what's next for the organization and their collaboration with sites.

EHR Data into EDC: Making it Simpler for Sites

July 25, 2023 12:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MB

In this episode, we explore the transition from EHR (Electronic Health Records) to EDC (Electronic Data Capture) and its implications for healthcare professionals and patients alike. Dan Braga, Vice President of Product Management and Digital Health Solutions at Medidata Solutions, shares how patients, healthcare providers, researchers, and the healthcare industry as a whole gain from the seamless integration of these technologies. Learn about the roadblocks faced by the industry and why thi...

Managing Rising Costs in Clinical Trial Budgets

July 21, 2023 19:00 - 25 minutes - 17.2 MB

A “good” budget can make or break a trial’s success, especially with rising operational costs. How are sites effectively managing budgets amidst economic uncertainties? Bouchra Rucker, Local Study Associate Director, Oncology at AstraZeneca, shares strategies for sites to successfully enhance their budgets, adapt to inflation, and negotiate with sponsors effectively.

Turning Passion into Patient Advocacy

July 10, 2023 12:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

This episode highlights a remarkable panel discussion from the SCRS Global Oncology Summit featuring Jennifer L. Hoffman, Patient Engagement Lead, Patient-Informed Development and Health Value Translation with Sanofi and Terri Conneran, Founder and Director, KRAS Kickers. Explore how patient perspectives have influenced the design and implementation of clinical trials, leading to tangible improvements in patient outcomes and satisfaction. Hear their inspiring stories and work as champions o...

Building Strong Clinical Research Teams

July 03, 2023 12:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MB

We sit down with Jeffrey Smyth, President and Executive Director of TrueBlue Clinical Research, to discuss the critical aspects of building strong clinical research teams and establishing your company culture.  Learn how and why to hire based on personality and skills as well as the importance of effective leadership. Jeffrey will also share tips and strategies for building trust and competency among new team members and how to manage remote/hybrid teams.

Unique Challenges Facing the LGBTQIA+ Community in Clinical Research

June 26, 2023 12:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MB

Brandon Doyle, Associate Director, Site Alliances SME Global Site Diversity Strategy, Parexel & Garo Kiledjian, COO, Trialogic – both cofounders of SGM Alliance – recently hosted a panel discussion at the SCRS Diversity Summit on the unique challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community in clinical research. Listen as they share insights on antiquated and discriminatory exclusion criteria in trials and how the industry can work together to be more inclusive to this community.

What to Expect at the SCRS Australia-New Zealand Summit

June 16, 2023 12:00 - 21 minutes - 15.1 MB

Cheryl-Ann Hawkins, COO, Emeritus Research & Tam Nguyen, Deputy Director of Research, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne share what topics they are looking forward to discussing at this year's Australia-New Zealand Site Solutions Summit! Hear how to prepare in advance and engage in meaningful networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration.

Diversity in Action: Patient Recruitment & Engagement Strategies

May 30, 2023 20:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MB

At this year’s Diversity Site Solutions Summit, SCRS hosted a variety of breakout discussions covering important topics to enable diversity, equity, inclusion and access in clinical trials. Today we’re highlighting some of the takeaways from one of those breakouts, which focused on successful patient recruitment and engagement strategies. Hear from Adrelia Allen from Merck, Deena Bernstein with Datacubed Health, Lacey Clements of IMA Clinical Research and Brittane Strahan from BEKHealth as t...

The Art of Industry Relationships & Addressing Site Needs

May 23, 2023 21:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

In this episode, we explore how to strengthen the relationship between sponsors and CROs and the sites they work with. Mike Wenger, CEO & Founder, VersaTrial, highlights how a single point of contact can help to resolve many bottlenecks. We also examine how technology can enable this relationship to be more efficient, including the benefits of investing in technology that is "site-ready" and advice for sponsors and CROs looking to make technological investments. Finally, we delve into why ...

Meet New Global Impact Partner: ProofPilot

May 15, 2023 12:00 - 19 minutes - 13.1 MB

We are thrilled to welcome ProofPilot to the Global Impact Partner (GIP) program! In this episode, Bernadette Tosti, Chief Product Officer at ProofPilot, discusses the importance of listening to site voices in advancing and streamlining clinical research. Bernadette also provides insights into ProofPilot's initiatives and programs and shares how these efforts will impact clinical trial sites. 

The New Frontier of Clinical Technology Innovation

May 08, 2023 04:00 - 27 minutes - 18.6 MB

In this episode, we're excited to chat about the inaugural SCRS West: Clinical Tech & Innovation Summit coming up in Scottsdale, Arizona. Ramy Nassar, Founder + Managing Partner, 1000 Days Out, and Karri Venn, COO, Centricity Research explore why an event like this is crucial for the clinical trial industry and what attendees can expect.  Ramy and Karri also share how the industry can collaborate to have more site-focused technology solutions and the importance of sites sharing their experie...

The Rise of Remote Clinicians & Mobile Services in Clinical Research

May 01, 2023 12:00 - 20 minutes - 13.9 MB

In this episode, we explore the growing trend of remote clinicians and mobile services in the clinical research landscape. IQVIA has been at the forefront of this trend, and we sit down with Eric Neeley, PhD, PMP Senior Director Research Nursing & Phlebotomy Solutions, to discuss what's working, what still needs work, and what to expect from this emerging field. Eric also shares their learnings from operationalizing this service and how they handle oversight of protocol deviations, which ca...

Bridging the Gap: Creating Opportunities for Diverse Clinical Research Staff

April 24, 2023 12:00 - 18 minutes - 12.9 MB

In this episode, we focus on the challenges facing the clinical research industry when it comes to hiring and retaining clinical research coordinators. Over the past few years, the industry has seen a noticeable decrease in available clinical research staff, making it imperative for sites to find new ways to attract and train new talent. To address this need, Susan Landis, Executive Director of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), shared more information about ACRP's E...

Becoming a CRO of Choice: Interview with Eagle Award Recipient

April 17, 2023 12:00 - 18 minutes - 12.9 MB

Taneen Hisgrove, Executive Director, Sites and Patients Center of Excellence at PPD, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, discusses the site-focused initiatives and programs PPD implemented to earn the 2022 Eagle Award CRO of choice. Taneen shares what receiving the Eagle award means to PPD, takeaways from the Global Summit, and what her organization's focus will be for 2023 and beyond.

Meet SCRS Global Impact Partner: Velocity Clinical Research

April 12, 2023 12:00 - 14 minutes - 10.1 MB

Andrew Kimball, Executive Vice President of Strategic Commercial Relationships at Velocity Clinical Research, highlights the growth and initiatives of his organization, which is currently the largest dedicated research site organization in the world. Andrew also shares insight on Velocity's acquisition of Meridian Clinical Research and the benefits of joining a site network.

Business Development Strategies for Research Sites

April 05, 2023 22:00 - 27 minutes - 18.8 MB

What is the best way for clinical research sites to find new trials and establish productive industry relationships? Scott Whitt, General Manager of Triad Clinical Trials, discusses business development best practices that have worked for his site, and how sites can develop strategic industry alliances.

Site Buzz: Budget & CTA Negotiation Trends Impacting Site Sustainability

March 27, 2023 12:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

Todd Albin, Chief Executive Officer, Cedar Health Research, joins us to discuss a trend many clinical research sites have been experiencing with their budget and CTA negotiations with sponsors. This episode will highlight how this practice impacts site sustainability, as well as our studies and our patients, and some ways sites and sponsors can come to a mutually beneficial solution.  Access the SCRS Site Invoiceables Toolkit at myscrs.org/site-invoiceables-toolkit.