Electronic data capture (EDC) is a software that is able to store patient data that is collected after a clinical trial. This data is first recorded on paper, and it’s then transcribed into the system. It is then saved as an electronic case report form (eCRF).
Importance of EDC in Clinical Trials
There are many new technologies in the market. However, researchers talk about the advantages of EDC in clinical trials, which is why they have been touted as a superior method. Let’s go over some of the benefits of EDC.
Secure Data
The data entry on EDC software is finished on a web-based interface. This provides an additional layer of security due to the sensitive nature of the data that is being collected. Every user account has designated permission and access, so this mitigates the possibility of a data breach.
Cost-Effectiveness
While many people argue that EDC systems can be an expensive one-time expense, you cannot ignore the fact that EDC software will end up saving you money in the long run. If you invest in the right software, you’ll feel a remarkable difference in your clinical trial data collection process.
Real-Time Data Access
With an EDC system, you can get quicker access to data. This will save you time and also provide data faster for analysis purposes. Once you get the hang of this system, this will make your clinical trials much simpler.
Accuracy
Data quality is significantly improved with EDC systems. The system is such that it rejects illogical entries, which minimizes room for error. This naturally makes way for cleaner trial data.
EDC and Cleaner Trial Data
While this is also a primary advantage of EDC systems, we’ll talk about it separately. EDC is able to provide value at every stage of the clinical trial, which makes it indispensable. While there may be ups and downs, it cannot be denied that EDC plays a vital role in collecting cleaner trial data.
One of the reasons behind this is that EDC systems allow you to delve deep into the entire process and make this possible. EDC systems allow for ease in handling data and eliminating room for error that is most likely with paper-based records.
EDC systems came to the surface when the importance of clean trial data emerged. Incorrect clinical trial data can mess up the whole trial data and can also adversely affect the effectiveness of analysis and the effectiveness of treatment as well.
In an attempt to quickly get out data, especially in pressing times like the COVID-19 pandemic, the quality is often compromised. Given the gravity of the situation, and given that we’re dealing with healthcare, there is a need for high-quality and accurate data.
Conclusion
If you need cleaner trial data, it’s high time that you invest in EDC systems. Of course, the results that you get will depend on the vendor you choose to purchase the system from. Get in touch to use the best EDC system in the market that will minimize room for error for seamless and quicker clinical trial data.
