Sites Speak Out: 9 Key Traits of Exceptional CRAs

In the dynamic world of clinical research, the relationship between Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) and research sites is a pivotal factor in the success of a study. A strong partnership can lead to efficient processes, high-quality data, and ultimately, a successful trial. 

But what makes a CRA truly exceptional in the eyes of a research site?

To answer this question, we sought insights from a diverse range of research sites: one of the largest multi-site networks in the country, a multi-hospital health system, and a small specialty site. Each brought a unique perspective, providing a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a high-performing CRA.

Here's what we discovered:

Accessibility:

A CRA who is available for open communication, along with the accessibility of the site team, the site manager, and the Principal Investigator (PI), creates an environment of collaboration and mutual support.

Advocacy:

Exceptional CRAs stand out by actively advocating for the sites they work with. They recommend these sites for other studies and genuinely strive to uplift them. This was exemplified in a real-life scenario shared by one of our interviewees. Amid challenging circumstances where her department was reduced to a single person grappling with an overwhelming workload, their CRA stepped in. The CRA communicated the situation to the study sponsor, advocating for the site and requesting that they not be penalized due to these difficulties. Such advocacy not only fortifies the relationship between the CRA and the site, but it also cultivates a sense of mutual respect and collaboration.

Communication:

Effective communication is a cornerstone of any successful partnership, and exceptional CRAs understand this well. They appreciate and engage in open and regular communication with the site team, fostering an environment where Clinical Research Coordinators feel comfortable asking questions. These CRAs make an effort to understand and promptly address issues, rather than merely issuing queries. They are continuously supportive, promptly escalating and following up on issues. The role of a CRA often involves pointing out errors and areas of improvement, which can be a sensitive task. However, their ability to deliver feedback constructively is a vital aspect of their role. This finesse in communication not only fosters a positive working relationship but also promotes a culture of continuous improvement.

Experience:

While the level of experience a CRA has can impact their efficiency, even less experienced CRAs can excel if they communicate well and show a willingness to learn and adapt. Their eagerness to grow and improve can often compensate for a lack of experience.

Knowledge of the Protocol:

A deep understanding of the trial protocol allows a CRA to be proactive and inform the team about potential issues before they occur. This foresight can prevent problems and ensure the smooth running of the trial.

Organization:

Being organized and having a systematic approach to tasks like shadow charting or reviewing EMRs are also important characteristics of a good CRA. Their ability to communicate this system to the site team ensures a smooth and efficient workflow.

Positivity:

A CRA who speaks positively about their employer and the projects they're working on tends to be more effective. Their problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and positive attitude, even in challenging situations, can be a catalyst for success.

Professionalism:

Professionalism is another key trait of a high-performing CRA. These individuals are diligent, thorough in their tasks, ask insightful questions, and show their commitment to their job. Their dedication to their role is evident in their work, and it inspires confidence in the site team. High-performing CRAs understand the importance of punctuality and reliability. They respect the schedules of the site team, ensuring they arrive on time and seldom cancel visits without a compelling reason. Moreover, they strike a balance in their interactions with the site staff, treating them as equal colleagues while maintaining a professional demeanor. This approach fosters mutual respect and collaboration, further enhancing the effectiveness of the CRA and the overall success of the clinical trial.

Responsiveness and Knowledge:

A competent CRA responds promptly to queries and, most of the time, knows the answers. They shouldn't have to escalate every question up the chain, and should be capable of resolving most issues independently. This independence not only increases efficiency but also strengthens the trust between the CRA and the site team.

Attention to Detail and Constructiveness:

When visiting the site, exceptional CRAs meticulously check everything and provide constructive feedback on potential issues. They're not just nitpicking but rather identifying potential trends and suggesting improvements. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and ensures the highest quality of data.

Harnessing the Power of Technology: The Future of High-Performing CRAs

The journey to training CRAs that research sites will love is not a destination but a continuous process. It involves fostering a blend of heightened communication and interpersonal skills with thorough knowledge of clinical trial processes and the study protocol. The path to achieving this can be significantly enhanced by leveraging the power of technology.

Tools like VersaTrial are revolutionizing the way CRAs work, reducing their workload, increasing their productivity, and boosting their job satisfaction. By providing clinical research coordinators with an escalation channel beyond the cluttered email inbox, VersaTrial enables the site to raise concerns without needing to determine the appropriate recipient for each issue.

This improved workflow allows CRAs to focus on what truly matters: building stronger site relationships and addressing major escalations more promptly. When everything is important, nothing is. By giving busy and often overwhelmed CRAs the breathing room to focus, we create a win-win scenario for both parties.

VersaTrial's capability to direct issues to the appropriate support endpoint eliminates delays and miscommunications frequently arising from traditional communication methods. By streamlining the process and fostering better collaboration among CRAs, sites, and sponsors, VersaTrial empowers all CRAs to achieve their highest levels of performance.

The future of high-performing CRAs lies in the intersection of human skills and technological advancements. As we continue to navigate this exciting journey, let us embrace the opportunities that technology offers. Let's empower our CRAs with the tools they need to excel in their roles and build strong, effective partnerships with research sites. The success of our clinical trials depends on it.