In the past year, major newspapers have put spotlight on abuses in the clinical trials industry. Articles focus on mistreatment of patients and raise questions of scientific integrity. Many in the industry see criticism as a warning of risks arising from commercialization of clinical trials. Sponsors' pressure on sites to quickly enroll studies is also cited as a factor that could encourage ethical failings. Summary SMOs are making a variety of pitches to sites.
Research centers struggle to weigh pros and cons of offers.