X
dsmb website

Still handling DSMB and DMC processes manually?

Manual processes depend on the individual carrying out the tasks. Therefore, they are prone to errors and can lead to inconsistencies in output and reduced quality. Manual processes can also be difficult to track and monitor, a serious weakness in the DSMB context where all decisions must be documented.

In the complex and highly regulated environment of clinical trials where errors can have serious consequences, manual processes can only add stress on a team, potentially leading to impaired dynamics and performance.


Main DSMB challenges for clinical leaders

Data Safety Monitoring Boards (DSMB) or Data Monitoring Committees (DMC) have become part of the clinical trial routine, adding complexity and risk to most trials. Clinical teams have the duty to support DSMB reviews by providing secure access to data while maintaining independence and confidentiality. Clinical leaders face four main challenges when managing DSMBs and DMCs: manageability and communication, security and confidentiality, GCP compliance and process governance.

Manageability & Communication

Many factors affect the frequency of DSMB reviews, and ad-hoc analyses may take place at any time at the DSMB request. Planning meetings, liaising with statisticians for reports, and communicating the DSMB decisions at planned and unplanned intervals throughout a trial require rigorous procedures. Without the right tool, the risk to get off-track is real.

Security & Confidentiality

The data presented and the discussions taking place at a DSMB are confidential. In order to make informed recommendations, DSMB members must have access to unblinded data usually presented by an independent statistician. Without the right tool, accidental or intended disclosure is another serious risk associated to DSMB management.

GCP Compliance

DSMBs must follow GCP rules as described in the ICH E6 Good Clinical Practice Guideline. DSMBs must for example operate with written procedures (SOP) and follow a specific charter. The quality procedures in place must be strictly followed and proof must be available in the TMF. Without the right tool, GCP compliance can be challenging to achieve.

Process Governance

Good process governance is often a challenge, especially in long studies where personnel change and DSMB operations can be separated by long intervals. For some organizations, consistent governance across multiple DSMBs is a specific challenge. A strong, validated tool with embedded security rules has proven the best way to achieve process governance.

 

 


eDSMB Software Screen

User-friendly eDSMB® software solution for GCP-compliant DSMBs, DMCs and Steering Committees

Setting up and conducting clinical trial committees such as DSMBs, DMCs and Steering Committees require an efficient, GCP-compliant process that guarantees safe data management, secure communication channels and meeting planning flexibility. With Ethical’s tailored, customizable and user-friendly eDSMB® software solution, clinical teams experience simplicity and efficiency in their committees day-to-day management.

Ethical CRO-Safe Partnership Program

The Ethical CRO-Safe Partnership Program brings together Ethical’s cutting edge technology and know-how in clinical committee processes with CROs’ business, medical and clinical skills, under one single point of contact for Sponsors. Ethical specialize in the software, so CRO partners can safely focus on the clinical business and trial operations, providing that differentiation from the competition.

DISCOVER MORE →

Book a call to discover the eDSMB® solution

Please fill out this form and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.



eDSMB Dossier

eDSMB®
software solution
service description

DOWNLOAD NOW
Previous Next

Data Monitoring Committees: FDA revises the DMC guidance

On 16 February 2024, the FDA posted a draft guidance for industry entitled “Use of Data Monitoring Committees in Clinical Trials,” for public feedback until April 15th, 2024 [...]

Data Monitoring Committees: FDA revises the DMC guidanceREAD MORE

FDA/EMA Guidance Documents on Data Safety Monitoring Boards

Establishment and Operation of clinical trial Data Monitoring Committees and Data Safety Monitoring Boards – Helpful links to the FDA and EMA Guidance Documents.

dsmb regulationsREAD MORE

The Data Safety Monitoring Boards - Data Monitoring Committees Handbook

A single, integrated handbook regrouping various sources of information on when, why and how to set up and use DSMBs and DMCs. 

dsmb handbook downloadDOWNLOAD PAGE