Article 369: CRC Loss Tied to Heavy Workload

• Study coordinator workload has increased dramatically, as a result of electronic data capture (EDC) implementation and more adverse events reporting. Although many sites are offering better pay, flexible hours, and even hiring assistants, more than half of all CRCs are still leaving their positions within three years. CRCs with experience remain difficult to find.

Article 370: Medical Writing Market Appreciation

• The market for medical writing will exceed $400 million in 2004 and is expected to grow at a steady 15% rate, Thomson CenterWatch estimates. CROs and niche providers are optimistic about medical writing due in part to the FDA’s push for more post-marketing safety studies.

Article 371: Much Work to be Done Before EU Directive Fully Implemented

• The May 1st deadline for incorporating the European Union’s Clinical Trials Directive into national legislation has passed, but some of the 25 member states remain behind schedule.

Article 372: Eye on: Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than two million Americans. CenterWatch has identified a pipeline of 28 drugs in development for rheumatoid arthritis.