INTREPID study

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and non-reversible (refractory) asthma. This disease is characterised by increasing breathlessness.

GSK launched a study, INTREPID, to investigate the efficacy of a treatment option for the condition. To set up the study quickly and efficiently, GSK sought support to identify investigators and sites across Wales to approach to take part.

Solution

Health and Care Research Wales worked closely with Keir Lewis, its specialty lead for respiratory, and the research and development (R&D) teams at the health boards in Wales, to identify and contact potential investigators and to gather expressions of interest in hosting the study.

Seven sites were selected in Wales from a mix of both primary and secondary care settings. The industry team supported GSK and the health board R&D teams through the site selection process, facilitated discussions and helped address barriers.

Using a ‘one cost, one contract’ approach, a contract and costing template was negotiated for the initial site, which was set up within the agreed timescales. Set-up for the subsequent six sites was then fast tracked because the contract and costing template had already been negotiated and agreed.

Impact

Recruitment has now completed and 189 participants in Wales have been enrolled into the study from across seven sites. GSK is pleased with both the recruitment support from Health and Care Research Wales and the quicker negotiation times delivered by the ‘one cost, one contract’ service.