HHS launches programs to speed clinical trials

HHS launched a set of initiatives intended to make clinical trials faster and more efficient. The central program, SURPASS, aims to support adaptive trials with shared infrastructure, common control groups and real-time analysis. BioPharma Dive reported that HHS is seeking proposals from teams with ideas for a system that could move beyond the traditional phased approach to trials.

Healio reported that three related programs will address trial operations and data: STACK aims to use AI to speed trial site activation, COMMONS will focus on connecting and sharing health data, and CINCH will help patients contribute real-world data and find potentially suitable trials. SURPASS program manager Daria Fedyukina told Healio the initiatives could shorten the timeline from a decade to 4 years or less. BioPharma Dive reported that Fedyukina told Axios innovations could cut timelines in half and achieve a 10-fold reduction in costs. Officials said the effort aims to make the U.S. more attractive for clinical research amid competition from other countries.