Delivering Excellence in a Large-Scale Late-Phase Vaccine Trial

At Optimal Clinical Trials, we believe in the power of research to transform lives and make a positive impact.  That’s why when one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies needed to conduct a multi-site, large-scale late phase flu vaccine trial in New Zealand, Optimal rose to the challenge and delivered with the top performance.

Originally designed to include participants aged 18 and older, the protocol was revised at the last minute to target only those aged 65 and older - a group critical for studying vaccine efficacy against severe flu cases. Time was of the essence, as ensuring the vaccine’s availability before flu season was vital to protecting vulnerable populations. Thanks to Optimal’s unwavering dedication and ability to adapt, we not only met what’s required, but exceeded all expectations.

Our team had worked tirelessly to recruit participants aged 18 and over, aligned with the original protocol. The last-minute shift to focus exclusively on participants aged 65 and older required a significant pivot in strategy. This change, combined with the wait for the investigational product, the need for same-day data entry and the long operational days required, created a uniquely demanding environment. Yet, our team embraced the challenge with determination and care.

1. Recruitment Excellence

We tapped into our extensive volunteer database and reached out deeply within our communities to find the right participants. With a dedicated Marketing team leveraging a multi-channel approach that included digital campaigns, traditional marketing, and grassroots outreach, we ensured diversity and quality in our participant pool. Our in-house patient engagement team and investigating doctors meticulously pre-screened candidates to meet the revised protocol requirements.

2. Operational Preparedness

Anticipating the unexpected is part of who we are. Our teams conducted rigorous practice simulations to ensure flawless execution on the day and prepared our response for various scenarios. With clear communication and a shared goal, everyone across all departments was ready to move fast as soon as the investigational product arrived, and the green light was given.

3. Participant Engagement

We focused on making the participant experience as pleasant as possible. Clear directions to our site, free parking, arranged transport for those in need, and complimentary refreshments ensured that every participant felt welcome and valued. We understand that a positive experience fosters trust and retention. Our study coordinators maintained personalised and clear communication with every participant, building trust and ensuring their commitment throughout the trial. This dedication led to an unmatched 100% retention rate - every participant returned for their follow-up appointments and completed the trial, a testament to the care and connection we provided.

This study reflects Optimal’s commitment to performance and care. When lives depend on timely, high-quality research, we deliver to help pharmaceutical and biotech companies achieve breakthroughs that change lives.

• Flexibility and Agility: Our ability to pivot rapidly in response to protocol changes, provide rapid start up and high-quality recruitment, ensured we delivered above and beyond the sponsor’s expectations.

• Participant-Centred Care: From our robust database and marketing strategies, phone screening, first visits to follow-up, we prioritised every participant’s comfort and experience, fostering trust and commitment.

• Uncompromised Quality: Our tried and tested systems and procedure ensured high quality data, backed by our ISO 9001 certification and a recent successful FDA inspection. 

• Unparalleled Performance: By surpassing all other NZ sites in recruitment and execution, we proved why Optimal is a leader in late-phase vaccine trials.

At Optimal Clinical Trials, we understand that clinical research is more than just data points and statistics; it’s about people. That's why we're committed to delivering exceptional research experiences that are both compassionate and effective.

Let’s inspire hope, aid discoveries, and contribute to knowledge that improve lives. Connect with us today to see how we can help you achieve your goals.