If you look at the sponsor and CR0 responsivity to the SMO model, it's not as strong as we had hoped. As a result, I think most would agree that the typical SMO hasn't been given a chance to demonstrate its true capability. They are really just beginning to recognize the opportunity for clinical trials. But as they achieve more critical mass, the ability of the PPMs to add value, both for a manufacturer and for the physician in the clinical trials areas grows exponentially. This is a significant opportunity that will affect new procedures, new devices, and new drugs, literally, any product or service that is delivered through or by a physician.
Some doctors involved in clinical trials today do so in a haphazard way.
To have a successful involvement, the PPMs can provide infrastructure and training to make sure that there is solid understanding of the clinical trials process. Their heavy investment in computerization will enable PPMs to use these systems for clinical trials data management. The PPM-clinical trials scenario creates job opportunities for qualified site managers, study coordinators, and data managers.