Dr Rachel Hallett
Capacity Strengthening Manager, The Good Clinical Trials Collaborative
In August 2023, the Good Clinical Trials Collaborative (the Collaborative) and four major research networks unveiled a strategic partnership to bolster clinical trials research in low and middle-income countries (LMICs).
With ADVANcing Clinical Evidence in Infectious Diseases, Africa Health Research Institute, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit in Vietnam and The Global Health Network — the Wellcome-funded Good Trials Prism programme will promote the principles of good randomised controlled trials (RCTs) across the regions where the partners are based.
Q: Why is Good Trials Prism focused on LMICs?
Rachel Hallett (RH): Compared to higher-income countries, LMICs face specific challenges in conducting clinical trials, including limited access to appropriate infrastructure, trained staff and funding. The Good Trials Prism network partners have deep knowledge and experience in coordinating impactful clinical research in resource-limited settings and are well-positioned to promote and support the delivery of robust evidence through good RCTs.
Q: Can you explain the Collaborative’s principles?
RH: Five scientific and ethical principles are outlined in the Collaborative’s ‘Guidance for Good Randomized Clinical Trials’ (the Guidance), which provides universally relevant, flexible and proportionate advice for a well-planned, well-run and clinically relevant trial.
The Guidance not only serves as a tool to foster a shared understanding and purpose among stakeholders but it is also designed to complement local and regional regulations and legislations.
Workshops and other events will facilitate
knowledge exchange and allow applications
of the Guidance to be explored.
Q: What activities will Good Trials Prism undertake?
RH: Good Trials Prism partners will utilise the Collaborative’s Guidance and its principles to promote an understanding of the qualities and benefits of good trials through contextually adapted learning materials to engage stakeholders.
Workshops and other events will facilitate knowledge exchange and allow applications of the Guidance to be explored. Curated resources will be published on open-access websites for others to use.
Q: What is the future vision of Good Trials Prism?
RH: By championing the principles of good RCTs, Good Trials Prism seeks to motivate all stakeholders to recognise good trial design, feasibility, relevance and efficiency as top priorities in a clinical trial, reducing waste and advancing healthcare worldwide.