Atlantic provinces form clinical trials network

SAN DIEGO (GNB) – New Brunswick is joining its regional counterparts in creating the Atlantic Clinical Trials Network, which aims to boost research and innovation, create new health-care opportunities, and position the region as a world leader in clinical trials.

The announcement was made today at the BIO International Convention in San Diego, the world’s largest event focused on biotechnology.

“By taking a regional approach, we can offer a one-door approach for industry while building on unique provincial strengths,” said Health Minister Dorothy Shephard. “This will bolster our competitive advantage and create global opportunities, attracting more clinical trials to our region.”

Clinical trials are scientific research studies in which patients volunteer to test new treatments. These trials can include medications, devices, natural health products, mental health treatments, surgical techniques and education interventions.

Shephard said the initiative will leverage regional collaboration, entrepreneurial capacity and world-class research for the benefit of patients.

“Access to therapeutic clinical trials is part of the best practices in terms of offering quality care to our patients, which is a priority for the Vitalité Health Network,” said Dr. France Desrosiers, the health authority’s president and CEO. “We have made significant strides in our ability to regionalize access to clinical trials during the pandemic, and we are excited to share our expertise and lessons learned with the other Atlantic provinces. I am confident that this collaborative approach will guarantee success for the benefit of all our communities. In addition, it supports one of the main objectives of our 2020-2023 strategic plan, which is to improve engagement with our partners and better meet the health needs of the population.”