Trials (Apr 2021)

Conducting clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic—a collaborative trial network response

  • Laura Robison,
  • Yeoungjee Cho,
  • Andrea K. Viecelli,
  • David W. Johnson,
  • Carmel M. Hawley,
  • Andrea Valks,
  • Peta-Anne Paul-Brent,
  • Ruth Stastny,
  • Julie Varghese,
  • Charani Kiriwandeniya,
  • Elaine M. Pascoe,
  • Liza A. Vergara,
  • Magid A. Fahim,
  • Neil Boudville,
  • Rathika Krishnasamy,
  • Donna Reidlinger,
  • on behalf of the Australasian Kidney Trials Network

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05200-0
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 22, no. 1
pp. 1 – 9

Abstract

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Abstract The unprecedented demand placed on healthcare systems from the COVID-19 pandemic has forced a reassessment of clinical trial conduct and feasibility. Consequently, the Australasian Kidney Trials Network (AKTN), an established collaborative research group known for conducting investigator-initiated global clinical trials, had to efficiently respond and adapt to the changing landscape during COVID-19. Key priorities included ensuring patient and staff safety, trial integrity and network sustainability for the kidney care community. New resources have been developed to enable a structured review and contingency plan of trial activities during the pandemic and beyond.