A critical link in the successful execution and completion of a clinical trial is the supply chain. From the initial strategic design and set up of the supply chain, through the enrollment and close out phases, careful planning and monitoring are required. Even then, some degree of risk and the potential for the unexpected remains.
With the involvement of an experienced clinical supply chain manager however, these risks can often be identified up front and planned for, or avoided altogether. When the unanticipated problem comes up, having a strong supply manager on board, with a background in clinical supplies and access to a network of other supply managers, can be the difference between missing milestones or moving the trial forward with little to no patient and trial impact.