Perceptions of the coordinating center: as viewed by an advisory board

As an advisory group appointed by and directly accountable to the sponsoring agency, the advisory board has a unique relationship with the coordinating center. The coordinating center provides the data and analyses by which the board assesses progress and monitors safety of a trial. Although assessment of quality of performance of the units of the study is the direct concern of the coordinating center, corrective measures frequently become advisory board matters. Ideally, the relationship between the coordinating center and the advisory board is one of mutual trust and support in pursuit of the goal of a trial that is planned carefully, conducted with tight control of performance and safety, and reported accurately to the appropriate professional groups.