A new paradigm for musculoskeletal clinical trials in the UK: the Arthritis Research Campaign (ARC) Clinical Studies Groups initiative.

In October 2007, the UK Arthritis Research Campaign (ARC) launched a new approach for the support of clinical trials and related research in the UK. The initiative depends on a partnership between ARC, the UK Clinical Research Network (UKCRN) and the pharmaceutical and related industry. The aim is to develop nationally agreed strategic plans for intervention research for the major musculoskeletal disorders. These will range from testing experimental therapies to novel approaches/ways of using existing interventions, taking advantage of the opportunities afforded for the enhanced support for clinical trials promised by the establishment of local research networks within the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Comprehensive Clinical Research Network (CCRN). The initiative encourages greater collaboration with industry with a move to enhance industrial support for research strategies prioritized by the key stakeholders of health care professionals and patients.