Clinical Trials Management Scheme (CTMS) Review
The Clinical Network has been providing funding to clinical trial sites
across Victoria since 1988 to help support on-site data management. Part
of this program involves collecting recruitment data, monitoring trials
activity and promoting clinical trials through our online resources –
the Victorian Cancer Trials Link (VCTL) and now the VCTL App. An evolving trials landscape, no increase in funding available and the findings of the Additional Funding Intervention Trial, resulted in a review of the CTMS program in 2015.
The recommendations made by the review committee were approved by the
Board of Cancer Council Victoria, resulting in changes to the funding
programs. The new scheme aims to increase patient access to clinical
trials through two funding components:
- Continued support to sites, by providing some reimbursement for
data provision (annual recruitment data collection and monthly trial
updates), and maintaining and updating the online resources for trial
promotion.
- The introduction of a competitive grants scheme aimed to fund fewer
sites, a more meaningful financial contribution. The competitive
component of the scheme will provide funding over a three year period to
implement strategies designed to meet the schemes aim.
Participating sites have been notified of the revised CTMS. An interim
Governance Committee has been convened to develop the details and there
is a FAQ’s document available . More details to come.
The annual recruitment data collection will commence in April and
payments will be made to sites mid-year. Cat Parker will be in contact
with sites directly to coordinate this process.
The strategic changes made to the scheme will ensure the program remains
viable and sustainable in an ever-evolving trials landscape.