In 2006, the Ministry of Health (MOH) reworked its priorities to bring in clinical research as part of its directive (MOH, 2008). After much analysis, it was believed that clinical research, if directed correctly, could bring about medical benefits to Singaporeans, further develop Singapore’s medical faculties and preserve our reputation as one of a regional medical hub (MOH, 2008).

Clinical trials are a growing area of interest amongst professionals of the healthcare sector, but it must first be approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on ethical and regulatory grounds so that appropriate protection is accorded to the persons involved. The Medicines Act 1975 and the Medicines (Clinical Trials) (Amendment) Regulations 1998 form the basis of regulation for clinical trials. Approved clinical trials will then be issued clinical trial certificates by HSA. The number of clinical trial certificates issued by the HSA has increased by about 80% over the span of 8 years from 2000 to 2008 (HSA, 2007).

Clinical trials are necessary because they do an assessment of the medicinal product or device. In a clinical trial, a scientific analysis of the effects, efficacy and safety of a medicinal product or device is done. There are various phases of clinical trials to be completed, depending on how invasive the medicinal product or device is.

In 2008, Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan delivered a speech regarding promoting clinical research in public hospitals (MOH, 2008). The Health Minister said that Singapore already has a strong foundation for biomedical research due to the development of life sciences in the Biopolis. Collaborations in translational and clinical research with local hospitals will see to the further development of a “knowledge- and evidence-based approach to healthcare”. Clinical research will aid in boosting healthcare quality and delivery and will cut costs in the future. Promoting clinical research will attract and keep healthcare professionals and medical talent in local hospitals, and consequently in Singapore.

With all the support that the government is giving to clinical research, the sector is bound to grow and develop. This opens up new opportunities and promises more for job-seekers and graduates interested in the research industry. BioBiz 2010 Conference will be highlighting the day-to-day duties of a clinical research associate in its afternoon breakout session.

Join this much interactive session and find out more for yourself (Breakout sessions only will be open to early sign ups).