Clinical trial supply chains ensure that the materials and supplies needed to conduct a clinical trial are ordered, manufactured, transported, and paid for so that the planned clinical trial can start on time with the proper resources. The process of designing, planning, executing, and monitoring supply chain activities in a timely and cost-effective manner is known as clinical trial supply chain management. The importance of uninterrupted supply and quality assurance of products for a clinical trial makes it essential to implement robust supply chain management.
Service providers should offer a range of supply chain capabilities including cold chain management; clinical supplies, lab supplies, and other consumable supplies; and of course, the drug product being tested.