Approaches to prioritising research
for clinical trial networks: a scoping review

Prioritisation of clinical trials ensures that the research conducted meets the needs of stakeholders, makes the best use of resources and avoids duplication.

As an outcome of ACTA’s 2017–2020 MRFF Grant, the aim of this review, that was published in Trials, was to identify and critically appraise approaches to research prioritisation applicable to clinical trials, to inform best practice guidelines for clinical trial
networks and funders.

The review found that current research prioritisation approaches for groups conducting and funding clinical trials are largely interpretative. There is an opportunity to improve the transparency of prioritisation through the inclusion of quantitative approaches.

We sincerely thank everyone who was involved in this review and all members of the Tools and Criteria for Research Prioritisation Working Group.