Self-assessed Competency among Clinical Research Professionals in the Philippines Using the JTF Framework

Area of Science:

• Clinical Research
• Health Workforce Development
• Human Resources for Health

Background:

• The Philippines possesses substantial potential to become a leading clinical trial hub.
• A significant challenge identified is the shortage of skilled clinical research professionals (CRPs).
• Existing research assessed CRP competencies in Thailand, Vietnam, Congo, and the Philippines in 2022.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the self-assessed competencies of Filipino CRPs.
• To identify specific training needs among Filipino CRPs.
• To evaluate the relevance of Joint Task Force for Clinical Trial Competency (JTF) framework domains to CRP roles.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among Filipino CRPs from March to April 2022.
• Participants self-assessed their competency and training needs based on the JTF framework.
• Investigator skills in community engagement and research grant application were also assessed.

Main Results:

• 175 Filipino CRPs participated, rating themselves as skilled but not advanced across all domains.
• Lowest confidence was reported in study management, investigational product development/regulation, and data management.
• Highest confidence was observed in ethical considerations, professionalism, and communication; investigators rated research design lowest.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a comprehensive self-assessment of Filipino CRP competencies using the JTF framework.
• Key areas for capacity building include operational and regulatory competencies.
• Findings should be interpreted cautiously due to non-probability sampling and self-assessment reliance.