Clinical Research: The Future of Medicine Stuck in the Digital Past

Abstract

The past eight years I’ve spent working at clinical research sites have been gratifying in countless ways. From seeing direct patient
improvement as a result of their involvement in a trial to learning about Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of a therapy on which we’ve conducted trials, the observable outcomes of contributing to the forefront of scientific knowledge are continuously rewarding. However, despite tangible medical field advances, day-to-day operations are often performed in an antiquated fashion. In this article, I highlight four outdated and inefficient methods still utilized in common clinical trial operations and offer suggestions for updated digital replacements.