What Does RTSM Stand For?
What does RTSM stand for?
RTSM stands for Randomization and Trial Supply Management. It is the technology used in clinical trials for unbiased subject allocation, inventory management, and logistics.
IRT is interactive response technology used to deliver randomization & trial supply management; in the biopharmaceutical industry, IRT and RTSM are used interchangeably to refer to the same thing: Namely how they support clinical trials.
In this article, we spotlight RTSM, asking how it differs from IRT and why eClinical RTSM platforms are preferred by many clinical trial investigators and sponsors.
What is the difference between IRT and RTSM?
While IRT and RTSM are often used interchangeably, there are some nuanced differences:
IRT is a broader, more general term that can encompass the various technologies (web, voice, mobile) that IRT platforms use. For example, in telephone banking IRT allows customers to interact using voice commands or a touch-tone keypad to access their accounts, make enquiries, and transfer funds.
RTSM is specific to clinical research. It uses interactive response technology to randomize patients to treatment and ensure they receive the correct drug supplies.
The key distinction is that RTSM is focused on functions, emphasizing the system’s capabilities rather than its mode of delivery.
Why choose eClinical for RTSM?
Utilizing an eClinical platform for RTSM can provide centralized access to study data, including RTSM. Trial investigators can benefit from real-time visibility of inventory levels, allowing treatment allocation to be optimized.
The risk of human error can be reduced significantly thanks to the randomization function, while the site burden can be reduced with more automated tasks.
When choosing an eClinical platform for RTSM, you can consider things like the experience of the professionals available, and whether the platform offers a unified solution for clinical research and development. Look out for the following attributes:
Experienced professionals
Some eClinical platforms provide access to experienced professionals who can offer guidance on randomization, medication management, and calculations. For example, Perceptive eClinical’s team includes a dedicated randomization & supply management expert for each study, with an average of 12 years of experience across all therapeutic areas and trial Phases.
These experts can also help implement a study design in RTSM; maximizing efficiency and reducing the risk of errors with good design. Look for a team that can offer a combination of statistical design knowledge and trial supply expertise, helping you to develop an effective and adaptable strategy.
Unified solution
Some eClinical platforms offer a single application for clinical trials, bringing together randomization, trial supply management, and study management, offering the functionality that complex clinical trials require, along with real-time data access. This ensures that informed decisions and changes can be made when necessary. All RTSM vendors should offer expertise in integration, allowing quick and easy implementation of data integrations between a range of different vendor systems.
The latest eClinical solutions can reduce complexity, minimize data transfer errors, and ultimately improve clinical trial outcomes.
Ease of use
Some eClinical platforms are designed to be easy to set up and intuitive. For example, Perceptive’s eClinical platform includes a customizable RTSM system that is designed to meet the needs of each study protocol, however complex. Such platforms allow studies to be managed efficiently with seamless integrations for systems such as Electronic Data Capture (EDC), saving time, and often proving more cost-effective.
Fast delivery
To accelerate your trial timeline, fast delivery counts. Look for a provider that can offer quick delivery on an IRT / RTSM platform – the best vendors can offer a turnaround of just a few weeks for a simple study design, allowing clinical teams to meet first participant (FPI) deadlines.
Discover an RTSM platform that delivers industry-leading randomization and trial supply management, improving data quality and access for your clinical trial.
Learn more about Perceptive eClinical today, or contact an eClinical solutions specialist
