What is a decentralized clinical trial (DCT)?
A decentralized clinical trial is a study design that leverages digital health technologies, remote monitoring, home visits, and local healthcare providers to conduct key trial activities outside of traditional research sites. It aims to increase accessibility, reduce patient burden, and enhance real-world relevance.
Why are DCTs important in clinical development?
DCTs improve patient recruitment, retention, and diversity by allowing broader participation. They also enable more flexible data collection and reduce geographic and logistical barriers. For sponsors, DCTs offer potential cost savings and operational efficiency, while generating data that may better reflect everyday clinical use.
