Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many health and life science companies, including diagnostic and medical device companies, have made an increasing effort to bring the hospital to the patient at home. By 2020 and onwards, solutions like telehealth became more widely popular among patients and companies. Among these patient-focused solutions, Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs) are being more accepted than others allowing more convenience, acceptance, and inclusion for the patients. As a result, clinical drug therapies or medical devices can increase participant recruitment and retention. Now, patients who didn’t have opportunities to meet with the doctor or participate in a research study physically can attend from start to finish. Direct to Patient (DtP) and Direct from Patient (DfP) services are increasing and allowing development of drugs for diseases or conditions that were once overlooked. However, the success of DCTs relies heavily on detailed planning and seamless coordination of logistics, ensuring timely delivery of medications and samples at the right temperature. Understanding the pivotal role of decentralized clinical trial logistics in clinicatrials is crucial and we will highlight the key strategies and considerations for efficient implementation.
Delivery represents the most critical stage of the shipping process. Direct-to-and-from-patient (DxP) shipments sometimes require last-mile delivery that is more hands-on than other shipments. Last-mile delivery offers clear visibility to all parties to ensure the safe timely arrival of critical shipments. This service allows real-time visibility, proof of delivery, and specific delivery instructions down to the room of the building you request. Ensuring the successful delivery of your shipment also involves effectively communicating with the recipient and capturing temperature-monitored data throughout the entire journey of the shipment.
On top of services like last-mile delivery, consider utilizing other cold chain supplies to monitor the success of your shipments. Implementing 4G trackers allows for precise location monitoring, optimizing future shipment scheduling and improving delivery accuracy. Numerous temperature monitoring devices are available, offering options for live 24/7 tracking or summarized and downloadable reports accessible upon arrival. Fresh Tracker 1 Temperature monitoring device with 4G tracker could offer global shipping location tracing with temperature monitor in real time; Data stored in the cloud, easy for manage and traceability; 24/7 data collect and analysis for your products. Real time alert via SMS, Email is available; Continuous recording and data storage during offline mode. Remote parameter setting, such as data uploading interval, alarm threshold, etc.