As the clinical research industry moves into a new year, the intersection of politics, patient-centricity, and regulatory oversight grows increasingly dynamic. Recent political changes, ongoing debates about transparency and safety, and the ever-present need for inclusion have created a shifting environment for the industry.

As we gear up for the second annual Save Our Sites (SOS) Conference in Oklahoma City, happening from March 13-15, 2025, our recent roundtable livestream brought forward some crucial topics that will shape the event. This year, we’re focusing even more on site advocacy, business development, networking, and creating actionable insights for clinical research sites.

Here are some of the key discussions and ideas that emerged from the livestream:

I’ve been in this industry long enough to witness firsthand how things have evolved—and how some things, unfortunately, haven’t. My career started at a small comunity based psychiatric clinic in a large urban market and has now brought me to a small border town in the desert Southwest. After years in research, including some consulting for pharma, CROs, and tech vendors, I realized that the patient voice was still not being heard, and that needed to change.

In the clinical research industry, the growing conversation about inclusivity and diversity is reaching critical importance. Despite many efforts, significant barriers still exist in engaging underrepresented populations, especially within the Latino community. Latinos In Clinical Research (LICR) stands at the forefront of addressing these challenges . . .

At the heart of our Roundtable discussion was the concept of business development. For many of us, securing a steady flow of studies is both an art and a science. It requires not just finding the right opportunities but also maintaining the relationships and reputation that ensure our sites are top-of-mind when sponsors and CROs are looking for partners.

In the competitive world of clinical research, a strong site reputation is essential for securing repeat business and establishing long-term success. A well-regarded clinical research site attracts sponsors, fosters trust with participants, and sets the stage for sustained growth. Developing this reputation requires consistent effort, strategic planning, and a commitment to excellence. Here’s how to build and nurture a reputation that keeps sponsors returning to your site year after year.

Establishing a clinical research site can be an immensely rewarding endeavor, offering opportunities to contribute to medical advancements and improve patient care. If you're considering this path, here's a structured approach to help you get started.