516 Alternative Clinical Trials Staffing Models for Improved Efficiency, Retention, and Profitability

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: High turnover rates of clinical trials staff pose obstacles to the quality and efficiency of conducting clinical trials. We have explored alternative staffing models to address these translational barriers and to improve the financial viability and return on investment of a centralized clinical trials office. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Implementation of an alternative clinical trials staffing model that leveraged burnout rates in clinical service areas by hiring APPs, RNs, EMTs, OTs and PTs in tandem with traditional CRAs/CRCs. Financial modelling of employing higher salaried clinical professionals was analyzed with regards to greater staff retention, trials efficiency, and operational cost savings. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Since 2014, 30 of 51 (59%) staff left the clinical trials office with 49% of these leaving prior to 2 years employment. Using average local CRCII compensation values, the costs associated with these transient staff amounted to $2.51 million (i.e., recruitment, replacement, and training). Models of staffing that replace 2 CRAs, 2 CRCIs and 2 CRCIIs with an RN, APP, CRCI and 3 CRAs increases compensation by 24.1%. This increase, however, is offset by greater workload capacity, retention, and more efficient trials operations. In addition, revenue generating PI clinical activity is sustained by employing credentialed APPs for study visits. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Long-term financial savings and greater clinical trial operational efficiency may be accomplished by seeking clinical professionals looking for alternative opportunities with greater work-life balance while leveraging their advanced clinical skills and licensing.