McDougall Scientific: Rescue Isn't Necessary When Clinical Trials Lead with Data

TORONTO, Dec. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Smaller pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies enhance clinical trial success by "leading with the data" to incorporate data management and statistical strategy early in trial planning. "Large companies typically have in-house statisticians and data managers who help plan trials from inception to ensure the trial design, data collection and analysis are all targeted to address the research question and regulatory concerns," says Janet E.A. McDougall, MSc, P.Stat. (SCC), PStat® (ASA), president of McDougall Scientific Ltd. "Smaller companies don't have these resources. They economize by delaying these crucial steps until after trials launch - and sometimes until after data collection. It's a false economy." McDougall, whose firm is recognized for clinical trials data management and analysis acumen, says these companies can encounter serious problems that may compromise the trial's strategic role in the drug development process. Good decisions cannot be made with poor data, she notes. Data quality has to be planned and cannot be pounded in post hoc.read more