NHS England unveils new processes to fast-track clinical trials

New processes to fast track clinical trials have been unveiled by NHS England to ‘eliminate variation and delays’ in organising commercial contract research, and boost access for patients. Working with the National Institute for Health Research, Health Research Authority and NHS Improvement, the move will reduce administrative costs and provide a consistent process across the whole of England.
“These proposals are a great example of how NHS England is working with the wider health and care system to tackle some of the ingrained challenges facing research today,” said Professor Chris Whitty, government chief scientific officer. “The Department of Health and Social Care is fully supportive of these proposals and will continue to work with NHS England and other partners to make them a reality.”
The move is part of the NHS’ wider plans to improve its own research and innovation capabilities, and to support and promote NHS organisations’ participation in research funded by commercial and non-commercial organisations, together with patients and carers. Peter Ellingworth, chief executive of The Association of British Healthcare Industries (ABHI), agreed and supported the move by saying: “We must find better ways of adopting innovation, and research is a critical part of this process. By simplifying the landscape, and crucially, speeding up the process in which research is set up, everyone benefits. I commend the changes outlined in the consultation response and look forward to working with the NHS to support its implementation.”