As clinical trials evolve to become more patient-centric, decentralization is emerging as a transformative approach to evidence generation. In a recent episode of tHEORetically Speaking, Aaron Berger, SVP & Head of Evidence Development Solutions at UBC, joined Paige McGarry to discuss how direct-to-patient (DTP) study designs are reshaping the future of clinical research.
Listen to the full interview to hear Aaron Berger share how UBC is pioneering decentralized clinical trial models that prioritize patient access, engagement, and data integrity. He discusses the operational challenges and opportunities in shifting from traditional site-based studies to direct-to-patient approaches, and how UBC’s Evidence Development Solutions are uniquely positioned to support sponsors through this transformation.
Berger also highlights the importance of aligning technology, regulatory standards, and patient needs to create trials that are not only feasible but impactful. This episode offers a compelling look at the future of clinical research and the strategic role UBC plays in driving innovation across the product lifecycle.
Why Decentralized Clinical Trials Matter
Decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) are designed to reduce patient burden and increase accessibility by enabling participation from home or local settings. Berger emphasizes that DTP models are not just operationally efficient—they’re essential for improving diversity, retention, and real-world relevance.
Scientific and Operational Benefits of DTP Models
UBC’s approach to evidence development integrates decentralized strategies to:
- Enhance patient recruitment and retention by removing geographic and logistical barriers
- Improve data quality through real-world data collection and remote monitoring
- Support regulatory compliance while maintaining scientific rigor
- Enable flexible study designs that adapt to patient needs and sponsor goals
These benefits align with UBC’s commitment to delivering fit-for-purpose evidence that supports product development, regulatory approval, and market access.
Technology-Enabled Patient Experiences
Technology is a key enabler of DTP studies. Berger discusses how tools like eConsent, telehealth, mobile sample collection, and digital patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) are streamlining the research process while maintaining high standards of data integrity.
UBC ensures that technology is implemented with a focus on usability, accessibility, and compliance, helping sponsors meet patients where they are—physically and digitally.
UBC’s Evidence Development Solutions: Driving Innovation
UBC’s Evidence Development Solutions are built to support sponsors across the product lifecycle—from early-phase studies to post-marketing evidence generation. Berger highlights how UBC combines scientific expertise, operational excellence, and patient-first thinking to deliver impactful results.
Whether through hybrid or fully decentralized models, UBC helps sponsors generate regulatory-grade, real-world evidence that informs decision-making and improves patient outcomes.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Patient-Centric Research
As the industry continues to embrace decentralization, the focus is shifting from feasibility to optimization. Berger encourages stakeholders to prioritize trust, communication, and empathy—the human elements that make DTP studies successful.
UBC remains committed to advancing decentralized research models that are scientifically sound, operationally feasible, and deeply aligned with patient needs.
Ready to Rethink Your Evidence Strategy? Let’s Talk.
Decentralized clinical trials are more than a trend—they’re a strategic imperative for sponsors seeking to generate high-quality, patient-centric evidence. At UBC, we combine scientific rigor, operational excellence, and deep patient engagement to help you design and execute studies that deliver meaningful results.
Whether you’re exploring hybrid models, fully remote trials, or real-world evidence strategies, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Connect with us today to learn how UBC’s Evidence Development Solutions can support your next study and accelerate your path to market.
About UBC
United BioSource LLC (UBC) is the leading provider of evidence development solutions with expertise in uniting evidence and access. UBC helps biopharma mitigate risk, address product hurdles, and demonstrate safety, efficacy, and value under real-world conditions. UBC leads the market in providing integrated, comprehensive clinical, safety, and commercialization services and is uniquely positioned to seamlessly integrate best-in-class services throughout the lifecycle of a product.
