If you’re new to EDC, this guide will help you gain a better understanding. To begin with, what is EDC, and what exactly does it mean in clinical trials?
EDC, or Electronic Data Capture, is an electronic data software that stores information about patients that is collected in clinical trials. The patient data is first collected via paper and then transcribed onto the electronic media. It is then saved in an electronic case report form (eCRF).
With the benefits of EDC, a large number of health facilities are now shifting from paper records to electronic data storage systems.
Importance of EDC Systems in Clinical Trials
EDC systems have become a vital tool in clinical trials. They help promote the primary purpose of a clinical trial, i.e., collection and evaluation of accurate information. It is a reliable and accurate way to gather, clean, transport and process information in clinical trials.
While EDC has far reaching implications, it simply acts as an eCRF when it comes to clinical trials. Healthcare facilities can search for reliable EDC clinical trial software to improve data collection. Click here to get access to the best EDC systems for clinical trials.
Benefits of EDC
EDC is a tool that is able to support clinical trials through a number of ways mentioned below.
Easy Access to Data
Unlike paper based records that require administration and complex query management, EDC is much easier and quicker to access. This holds immense importance for clinical trials as it saves time at the end of the study, allowing real time access to data. The ease in the availability of data for evaluation makes clinical trials simpler and more efficient.
Data Quality
EDC has features that help mitigate the incidence of error. Therefore, it helps to improve the quality of data gathered in clinical trials. EDC provides the option of adding constraints on a clinical report form, which prevents users from entering inaccurate information and values. A computerized system is minimizes error, by automatically inspecting data.
Security
Since the nature of the data collected through clinical trials is sensitive, given they are medical records, software vendors ensure high levels of data security. This data is both protected and backed up in case of any glitch. Several users may be present, but each of them has designated access, further ensuring and increasing security.
Cost Effective
The cost of an EDC system may range from medium to high. While the initial cost of an EDC system may seem substantial, it will save money in the long run as it reduces the need for manual labor, subsequently reducing administrative requirements as well. This investment will prove cost advantageous in the future and allows room for allocating funds elsewhere in a clinical trial study.
