1. Breaking the Communication Barrier: forming a Clinical Research Professionals Group at your Institution
Dena Martin, CCRP Annie Pennella MS, CCRP Joanne Chilton, CCRP
SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
Purpose
Results
Comments Received
CRP Concerns:
Poor and inconsistent training
Lack of respect for the position
Communication barriers with Research Administration and other management areas
Management Concerns:
Unprofessional behavior by CRPs when new policies implemented
Inconsistent handling of study processes
Lack of respect
These concerns were discussed and the importance of professional conduct from both sides was emphasized. As institutional administration gradually understood the intentions of the CRP group (to further the progress of all research efforts at the institution) progress was achieved.
Results:
Quarterly CRP meetings instituted
Representatives from Research Administration invited to participate in CRP meetings
Communication greatly improved between CRPs and Research Administration
CRP group Charter approved
The CRP group acknowledged as a professional entity and included in meetings that will affect daily workloads
Survey Results after 3 years – 40 responses
The purpose of the Professional Group is to form a cohesive body among the Clinical Research Professionals (CRPs) in all departments of our institution. Our aim is to function as an organized unit along with Research Administration so that researchers can make informed decisions that will impact our duties, increase understanding and cooperation among the various Research Administration entities, minimize redundant activities, develop standardized protocol guidelines, share cost-saving ideas with membership, and continue to be a positive force in the advancement of research at the institution.
I find the topics relevant and it’s nice when there is discussion among the other coordinators to find out what others are doing.
Staffing issues, training on EMR, CMEs and IRB instruction.
Updates on policy changes, new tools available within the institution or industry, overall just having a chance to talk to other CRPs.
Question and answer. Review of relevant topics.
Open discussion to see how each group runs and hash things our as they arise.
It’s organized. Most of the time there is feedback with suggestions and ideas.
Brings us up to date on current CRP issues.
As a coordinator in training, all of the information is very helpful.
Being able to present ideas and concerns to get feedback from the group.
EMR updates, RF account review, IRB updates.
Importance of coming together as a group.
Updates. Relevant subject matter.
Just the general information and having an opportunity to ask questions and share information with everyone.
I always pick up advice that is useful and relevant.
EMR discussions.
I like to hear about the issues faced by the CRPs and clinicians at our institution.
Doing a great job, communication is much better with all coordinators and it helps to know others are struggling/learning as well.
It would be nice to see more of the CRPs attend the meetings. There is valuable info that is discussed at times.
I think the meetings have been very helpful and I appreciate that the minutes and presentations are sent around. Thank you!
Methods
Needs Analysis was conducted by polling the CRPs who were initially involved with forming the group
Meetings with management of various institutional administrative departments that were noted as problems in the poll (Billing, IT/EMR, IRB, Pharmacy, Research Administration) were arranged to discuss issues and get management perspective
Management perspective was discussed with group co-Chairs, in order to begin developing strategies to resolve difficulties and miscommunication
Quarterly meetings were instituted for all CRPs within the institution
A shared drive and list serve were created for CRPs to include all essential documents and training items
Meetings with Human Resources were arranged to discuss the process of becoming an official group within the institution
A CRP group Charter was drafted and presented to Research Administration for approval
Conclusions
Consistent training of CRPs is essential to becoming a research institution that study sponsors want to work with
The position of CRP is now better understood and more respected throughout the institution
The importance of thoughtful, open communication among the CRPs and all functional areas within the institution is critical
Positive effects of these efforts :
Standardized budgeting templates
Training sessions for all levels of CRPs
Job specific EMR training
New SOPs for managing invoice-able transactions and study close out
The most important aspect of this entire project has been the understanding that professionalism and respect must be given to be received, and this has improved in all areas
Initial Survey Results – 11 responses
Acknowledgements