Positioning BC’s health research system for the future: Clinical trials

British Columbia has a well-established clinical trials ecosystem, driven by substantial investment, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to innovation. Looking ahead, there is a significant opportunity to build on these strengths and enhance BC’s global competitiveness. 

Recently, Health Research BC commissioned a situational analysis of BC’s clinical trials ecosystem. One of the report’s key insights was the need for a single organization to take the lead in coordinating provincial clinical trials efforts.  

Clinical Trials BC, as part of Health Research BC, has held varying responsibilities for clinical trials programs and activities but was only one actor within a diverse group of provincial, national and international organizations. 

Following discussions among provincial clinical trials organizations, the government has asked Health Research BC to fill the role of clinical trials ecosystem convener.  

Health Research BC will now work to enable Clinical Trials BC to take on this important leadership role. Building on its existing portfolio of programs and resources, Clinical Trials BC will coordinate a unified, province-wide approach to advancing clinical trials. It will enact recommendations of the situational analysis report where possible to build BC’s competitiveness nationally and internationally. 

As plans move forward, Health Research BC will work closely with Clinical Trials BC and the broader clinical research community, ensuring transparent communication and active engagement at every stage. We look forward to sharing further updates as this work evolves, supporting the advancement of clinical trials and health research across British Columbia. 

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