ISO 9001:2015 standard implementation in clinical trial centers: An exploratory analysis of benefits and barriers in Italy

Background: In the last decade many clinical research centers in Italy have increasingly implemented and improved their quality standards and effectiveness of processes through the adoption of a quality management system also according to the certification ISO 9001:2015. Objective: The aim of this project is to evaluate expected benefits and barriers of ISO 9001 certification for a Clinical Trial Center. Material and methods: On April 2021, the Italian Group of Data Manager and Clinical Research Coordinator spread an anonymous online survey to healthcare professionals operating in clinical research and quality management systems at research sites. Results: Reported benefits of ISO oriented Quality Management System adoption include continual improvement and better-quality processes (73.3%), assuring corrective actions (63.6%), planning internal audits (60.2%) and risk management approach (60.7%). The most important barriers to QMS implementation are increased logistical and/or organizational activities (40.9%) and insufficient training on quality programs (29.5%). Conclusions: Implementing a quality management system represents a challenge for the Clinical Trial Center and helps to improve quality standards and risk management approach. The use of electronic tools is poor and could be increased in the future. Lastly, improvement of continuous QMS trainings should be necessary for updating professionals and optimizing activities within the Clinical Trial Center.