Site Selection In Japan – What Matters?

Without a doubt, site selection is a key factor in any successful clinical trial. In Japan, the site selection process is a bit different than it is in other countries. There are many unique factors that can influence the end result of a project. So, what are those factors?

CROèe Global has analyzed which factors are most important when choosing a site. The sample shows data for 650 patients and 40 sites.

(See the chart below)

The data used to make this chart was taken from a CNS study conducted in Tokyo. As you can see from the chart, the most important things to keep in mind when selecting a site are: the total number of sites, available visits days, and the distance of the site from station. In terms of patient recruitment, referring potential patients and managing the patients in the sites are two things that should also be taken into account.

One way to think of a patient’s experience in reference to a clinical visit is to liken it to an evening at the movies. When going to see a movie, the time and date would probably be the biggest factors that impact your decision, but wouldn’t you also consider the location and distance from your home? Remember, patients participating in a clinical trial also select sites using exactly the same thinking process.

There are, however, very rare and exceptional cases where these factors can be thrown out the window. For example, if there is only one investigative site to choose from, it is a completely different story. Also, if the subject’s motivation to participate in a study is extremely high, then the patient will still choose a particular site even it is slightly inconvenient.

With our expertise, site selection and patient recruitment in Japan is a breeze. Contact us if you are interested in learning more about our services!