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Addressing Challenges to Enhance Clinical Research in Portugal: Insights from the OncoT3 Expert Group Delphi Study
Catarina Resende1, Marta Abreu2, José Presa Ramos3
1Medicine, University of Coimbra, Agencia de Investigação Clínica e Inovação Biomédica (AICIB), Coimbra, PRT.
Cureus
|December 16, 2024
Summary
A Delphi study identified key areas to optimize clinical research in Portugal, achieving expert consensus on 45 statements. Challenges remain in patient recruitment and institutional support for clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Clinical research methodology
- Health services research
- Regulatory science
Background:
- Clinical research has advanced globally, with Portugal showing progress in regulatory alignment and digital tools.
- Persistent challenges in Portugal include limited funding, slow patient recruitment, and regulatory delays.
- Optimization of clinical research practices is crucial for advancing healthcare in Portugal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key areas for improvement in clinical research practices in Portugal.
- To achieve nationwide expert consensus on optimizing clinical research in the country.
Main Methods:
- A modified three-round online Delphi study conducted between 2023-2024.
- A scientific committee developed 45 statements across five topics: research time, integrated research centers, trial implementation, institutional authorities, and patient recruitment.
- Fifty-one experts rated statements on a 5-point Likert scale, with consensus defined by agreement thresholds (≥90% in round 1, ≥85% in round 2).
Main Results:
- Consensus was reached on 32 of 45 initial statements (71.1%) in the first round.
- After a second round including four new statements, consensus was achieved on 45 of 49 final statements (91.8%).
- Greatest agreement was observed for the organization of integrated research centers and conditions for implementing clinical trials. Patient recruitment and institutional support showed areas needing further dialogue.
Conclusions:
- The study provides actionable insights for health organizations, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders to enhance clinical research in Portugal.
- Addressing identified barriers and leveraging opportunities can improve Portugal's standing in international clinical research.
- Further dialogue and innovative solutions are needed for patient recruitment and referral, and for institutional authorities to promote clinical research.
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