Abstract: PO0571
A New Vision for Nephrology Trials in Canada
Session Information
- CKD Clinical, Outcomes, and Trials - 2
October 22, 2020 | Location: On-Demand
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: CKD (Non-Dialysis)
- 2102 CKD (Non-Dialysis): Clinical, Outcomes, and Trials
Authors
- Murdoch, Alicia, Can-SOLVE CKD Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Madore, Francois, Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Sparkes, Dwight, Can-SOLVE CKD Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Tennankore, Karthik K., Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Vorster, Arris Hans, Can-SOLVE CKD Network, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Suri, Rita, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Background
The Canadian Nephrology Trials Network (CNTN) was established in 2014 to improve the quantity and quality of clinical trials in nephrology in Canada. With inception of the Canadians Seeking Solutions and Innovations to Overcome Chronic Kidney Disease (Can-SOLVE CKD) Network in 2016, CNTN received additional funding to expand its mandate. We surveyed and assembled a broad cross-section of Canadian kidney patients, nephrology researchers, and other relevant stakeholders in order to establish an expanded new vision for CNTN.
Methods
In July-August 2018, we administered two separate surveys – one to patient members of Can-SOLVE CKD and the second to members of CNTN and other Canadian nephrology investigators. We then conducted a two-day visioning workshop in September 2018 to discuss how best to support nephrology research in Canada. Over 40 stakeholders participated, including 10 patients, 22 researchers, and members of the Can-SOLVE CKD Operations Team.
Results
Through the survey, we identified two issues that were at least moderately challenging: inability to facilitate multi-site trials (81%) and lack of engagement with community sites (74%). Three key themes emerged from the visioning exercise: peer review, training, and engagement. A summary report captured workshop discussions and was used to inform revisions to CNTN’s structure and governance. Three new working committees were created: Capacity Building, Communication and Engagement, and Scientific Operations; as well as a governing Executive Committee. Each committee is co-chaired by a nephrologist and patient, who take turns leading the Executive Committee.
Conclusion
With its new vision and committee structure, CNTN aims to promote a culture of collaboration within the Canadian kidney community and integrate patients into research. The network offers resources to enhance nephrology researchers’ ability to conduct clinical trials, directly involve patients in designing studies, and motivate change in patient care based on patient priorities through increased peer review, engagement, and training.
Funding
- Government Support - Non-U.S.