New industry group to promote multisite networks to sponsors, CROs
The Association of Multisite Research Corporations (AMRC), a trade association for clinical trial networks, launched last week with the aim of promoting these organizations to sponsors and CROs.
Research networks consist of clinical trial sites that are either wholly owned or backed by a single management organization.
The idea is that such networks offer CROs and sponsors a clinical trial infrastructure that is more consistent, scalable, and efficient than using multiple, private sites, according to Jim Kremidas, AMRC executive director.
“Multisite networks provide scalable, reliable solutions to systemic industry challenges. With standardized processes and centralized operations, these networks are redefining clinical trials.
“AMRC’s launch unites the industry to champion the multisite model, fostering a more efficient, cost-effective, and patient-centric future,” he said.
The AMRC, which was launched by 14 networks, represents nearly 400 clinical research sites, employing over 7,000 people, including nearly 1,000 principal investigators.
In addition to promoting networks to sponsors and CROs, the organization plans to develop training programs for clinical trial staff. It also intends to expand the approach beyond the US.
“Once it has solidified its position in the US, the association intends to expand its membership and advocacy efforts internationally, targeting regions, including Europe, Canada, and Asia,” the AMRC said in a press release.
PE and site networks
Trial site networks – or multisite clinical research corporations as the AMRC calls them – have emerged over the past ten years through the amalgamation of previously standalone private research sites.
Much of the impetus has come from private equity with organizations such as Curewell Capital, Martis Capital, Webster Equity Partners, and Trinity Hunt Partners being investors in trial site networks.
In general, sponsor response has been positive. During the COVID-19 pandemic, site networks were involved in running vaccine trials, such as AMRC founding member Headlands Research.
Others have been more reserved about private equity-backed networks.
For example, a 2022 study in JAMA raised concerns that “private equity ownership of physician practices has added a distinctly private and market-driven influence to the broader trends in corporate consolidation of physicians by health systems and insurers.”
DepositPhotos/ALotOfPeople