SCRS remains committed to addressing the evolving needs of clinical research sites and the participants they serve. Our initiatives and programming focus on empowering research sites with the resources needed to navigate and rise above challenges. Don’t miss important updates on current initiatives and resources for our community:

Building Financial Equity for Sites and Participants

The SCRS Payment Initiative continues to make strides toward easing the financial burden on research sites and study participants. In 2024, the program prioritized eliminating holdbacks and taxes on participant payments, as well as improving site payment frequencies. Resources are now available on the Payment Initiative page to help sites and industry partners better understand current challenges around payments.

As we look ahead to 2025, SCRS is expanding its focus to address recruitment budgets more thoroughly, including pre-screening, screen failure payments, and outreach campaigns. Additional workstreams will be dedicated to refining site start-up payments and establishing fair, standardized reimbursement values for study participants. This forward-thinking approach ensures that sites and participants are not only fairly compensated but also supported in every phase of trial involvement. To contribute to the ongoing work in this area, reach out to SCRS at info@myscrs.org.

Promoting Professional Growth and Knowledge through Mentorship

SCRS is also focused on fostering professional development through its Mentorship Program. Available exclusively to SCRS site members, the program is a powerful way to exchange knowledge, develop new skills, and support the next generation of clinical research staff. Site members are invited to join as mentors, mentees, or both. This program is an opportunity to enhance your expertise and contribute to the broader research site community. Sign up today through your Tradewing account under the Member Benefits tab.

Fostering Inclusion with the DSAT

SCRS has revamped the Diversity Site Assessment Tool (DSAT) under its IncluDE Program. The DSAT now includes updated questions that provide a more thorough analysis of site capabilities in recruiting diverse patient populations, including considerations for accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. This tool empowers sites to expand their outreach and create more equitable research experiences for all participants, reinforcing SCRS’s commitment to inclusivity.

Preparing Sites for Cybersecurity Threats

Clinical technology offers many benefits, but it also introduces potential threats. October marked Cybersecurity Awareness Month—a reminder of the critical importance of safeguarding sensitive clinical research data. To support sites in navigating these complex risks, SCRS has developed a comprehensive Cybersecurity Guide. The guide provides essential information on understanding cybersecurity risks, establishing effective prevention and response strategies, and assessing associated costs. For any site unsure where to begin, SCRS’s guide serves as a foundational resource to help mitigate risks and protect valuable research data.

Founded in 2012, SCRS is a global trade organization that unifies the voice of the clinical research site community to create greater site sustainability. Representing over 11,000+ sites in 58 countries, SCRS membership provides sites with a community dedicated to advocacy, education, connectivity and mentorship. SCRS is an influential voice for sites and an active partner in industry-wide initiatives and dialogues focused on improving the clinical research enterprise. Our Voice. Our Community. Your Success.