Oncology trial strategy with Deb Kientop, VP Clinical Operations at Deka Biosciences

In today’s healthcare landscape, the term ‘patient-centric’ has been showing up more and more. It emphasizes the importance of considering the patient’s needs, experiences, and preferences. In the realm of oncology clinical trials, patient-centricity plays a pivotal role. But achieving it isn't easy. 

In this episode, our guest Deb Kientop, a pharmaceutical professional with 27+ years of experience, including research, clinical, medical affairs, strategy and management, explores the complex world of patient-centric oncology clinical trials. Deb shares her personal experiences, and provides a unique perspective on the intricacies involved in achieving patient-centricity in these trials. Tune in to explore the hurdles that exist in crafting patient-centric clinical trials, the role that collaboration plays in clinical trials, and how to dismantle barriers that deter patients from accessing clinical trials. 

Topics Discussed: 

• Deb's personal experiences with clinical trials and how it highlights the importance of patient-centricity in oncology clinical trials.
• Challenges in designing patient-centric clinical trials for oncology patients due to varying patient pathways and needs.
• The role of patient advocacy groups and advisory boards in incorporating the patient voice into clinical trial protocol design.
• Practical considerations like time, effort, and potential travel that affect protocol inclusivity. 
• Importance of understanding data in context, technology use, and timelines when designing protocols and selecting sites. 
• Necessity of alignment between CRO and sponsors and the approach needed for successful clinical trials. 
• The critical role of collaboration among the sponsor, CRO, and investigator. 
• Importance of removing barriers for patients to access clinical trials and equipping patients and caregivers with the necessary information. 
• Logistical considerations in clinical trials, such as frequency of visits, travel assistance, and insurance coverage.

Links: 

Deb Kientop