The Investigators' Meeting: Obtaining Maximum Results

Area of Science:

• Clinical research
• Investigator meetings
• Trial initiation

Background:

• Investigator meetings are crucial for clinical trial initiation.
• Understanding investigator preferences can optimize meeting effectiveness.
• Differences may exist between private practice and academic investigators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify investigator likes and dislikes regarding pre-trial initiation meetings.
• To determine if opinions differ between private practice and academic investigators.
• To assess preferences for meeting format, location, and logistics.

Main Methods:

• A 16-item multiple-choice survey was distributed to 565 clinical investigators.
• Response rate was 63%.
• Data were analyzed to compare preferences between investigator groups.

Main Results:

• A majority (67%) found meetings beneficial for themselves and coordinators.
• 70% preferred multicenter meetings to on-site initiations.
• Private practitioners preferred weekend resort meetings; academics favored mid-week sessions.
• Investigators preferred self-arranged travel over central planners.
• Protocol presentations and Q&A sessions were deemed most beneficial.

Conclusions:

• Investigator meetings are valued, with a preference for multicenter formats.
• Tailoring meeting schedules and locations to investigator types (private vs. academic) may enhance engagement.
• Clear communication regarding protocol and study specifics is essential for maximizing meeting benefits.