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The Recent TriNetX Survey: Transformation in Biopharma

In a rapidly evolving biopharmaceutical landscape, the integration of real-world data (RWD) and artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of industry innovation. A survey conducted by TriNetX and studioID unveiled compelling insights about how these technologies are shaping research and development. However, the report also highlighted significant obstacles that could hinder progress.

Key Findings from the Survey

Conducted with over 150 senior executives in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, the survey showcased a strong appetite for adopting RWD in the drug development process. 77% of respondents indicated that their organizations are using real-world data for specific drug development tasks, while over 50% have already implemented AI in conjunction with RWD, yielding faster and more actionable insights.

Notably, an impressive 93% of those surveyed believe that AI technologies can enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of real-world data. Steve Kundrot, COO of TriNetX, emphasized the shift in perception: "Real-world data is no longer just a concept; it’s a capability that organizations recognize and are actively investing in. However, to fully leverage its potential, we must address the challenges of integration, data standardization, and building trust in AI applications."

The Compatibility Hurdle

Despite the optimistic outlook on RWD utilization, one of the main hurdles remains data compatibility. Respondents reported relying on an average of 5.3 diverse sources of RWD, including laboratory data (77%), genomic data (62%), registry data (61%), and health equity data (61%). However, 29% cited data compatibility issues as a significant barrier to broader utilization. Kundrot pointed out the necessity of data harmonization: "Finding a trustworthy partner capable of integrating diverse sources across various health organizations while ensuring data fidelity and confidentiality is crucial."

A Shift Towards Inclusive and Patient-Centric Clinical Trials

The trend towards constructing clinical trials that are inclusive and centered around patient needs is gaining momentum. The survey revealed that 84% of executives are increasing their efforts toward inclusion, and 99% plan to maintain or expand these efforts in the future. Moreover, 71% identified RWD as a vital initiative to enhance patient engagement.

However, regulatory challenges and access issues persist. Complexity in regulations was cited by 36% of respondents as the primary obstacle to wider representation in clinical trials, while 34% pointed to accessibility difficulties. Dr. Jeffrey Brown, Scientific Director at TriNetX, stated, "Regulatory uncertainty can obstruct the design of inclusive trials even if the intent is there. Real-world data, particularly social determinants of health, reveal patient realities and generate the type of evidence regulators seek. It’s the bridge between inclusion goals and regulatory trust."

Real-World Evidence for Regulatory Submissions

In a unanimous vote of confidence, 100% of respondents acknowledged that real-world evidence can enhance regulatory submissions—a pivotal advancement for evidence generation strategies in biopharma. However, successful implementation hinges upon strategic execution. Brown noted the importance of ensuring that real-world data is fit for purpose and applied to reasonable use cases: "To convince regulators, biopharmaceutical companies must prioritize data quality, study design, and ethical application, especially in rare disease research where new trials are not always feasible."

Accelerating AI Adoption While Addressing Data Security Concerns

As AI adoption accelerates, the survey revealed that 36% of respondents view data security as a major concern when linking AI with RWD. Kundrot advised organizations to establish robust privacy controls and require audit rights with their AI partners. "AI's potential is enormous, but without trust and transparency in how data is managed and secured, adoption could stall," he warned.

To read the complete results of the survey, along with insights from TriNetX experts and strategic recommendations, download the full report titled “What Pharma Leaders Really Think About AI, RWD, and Inclusion.”

About TriNetX, LLC

TriNetX operates the world’s largest federated real-world data network, partnering with healthcare providers to apply insights that accelerate innovation across the healthcare ecosystem. Through its HIPAA-compliant, GDPR-conforming self-service platform of federated, de-identified electronic medical record datasets, TriNetX empowers its global community to optimize clinical trial protocols, streamline trial operations, enhance safety signals, and enrich real-world evidence generation. For more information, visit TriNetX at www.trinetx.com or follow TriNetX on LinkedIn.