Description of Indicator
Clinical trials are biomedical or health-related research studies in human beings that follow a pre-defined protocol. There are interventional and observational studies. Interventional trials determine whether experimental treatments or new ways of using known therapies are safe and effective under controlled environments. Observational trials address health issues in large groups of people or populations in natural settings.
Why is it important?
Clinical trials are indicators of innovation. They create jobs and sometimes lead to new and improved pharmaceuticals or medical equipment, which in turn heighten quality of life and foster more business opportunities.
How is the region performing?
The total number of active clinical trial sites in the region increased from the previous year. As of 2024, there are 174 active clinical trial sites. Sixty-six of these trial sites are in Lackawanna County and the remaining 108 are in Luzerne County.
| Active Clinical Trial Sites | |||||
| 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lackawanna | 58 | 51 | 42 | 34 | 66 |
| Luzerne | 149 | 119 | 93 | 107 | 108 |
| Wayne | – | – | – | 0 | 0 | Source: Centerwatch |