The AAMC submitted a letter to the National Library of Medicine (NLM) on March 14 in response to a request for information (RFI) on modernizing the ClinicalTrials.gov website. ClinicalTrials.gov is where all NIH-funded awardees and investigators conducting clinical trials are expected to register and report results of their trial.
The NLM is gathering information to inform a larger effort to modernize the site and “deliver an improved user experience on an updated platform that will accommodate growth and enhance efficiency.” The RFI requested stakeholder feedback on website functionality, information submission, and data standards.
The AAMC emphasized support for ClinicalTrials.gov providing greater transparency around the clinical research enterprise by functioning as a platform to store and make available clinical study trial data. In particular, the letter noted the importance of updating the public-facing site through improved design and accessible language, and it clarified for the public that many trials listed on the site are not funded by the government.
The AAMC also provided recommendations on making the site more efficient and effective for the researchers and administrators uploading trial data, including the development of additional instructional materials, alignment with other institutional systems, use of identifiers for both datasets and individuals, and standardization of fields whenever possible.
- Washington Highlights