Improving clinical supply chains: An in-depth conversation with IQVIA's Stefan Duerr

At the helm of innovation in this domain is Stefan Duerr, the senior director of product management and client delivery at IQVIA IRT and the Head of the Drug Supply Center of Excellence. With a rich background in molecular biology and an executive MBA, Stefan brings a blend of scientific rigor and business acumen to the table. Over his 17-year tenure in Interactive Response Technology (IRT), he has been instrumental in devising solutions that address the multifaceted challenges of clinical supply chains.

A journey rooted in science and strategy​

Reflecting on his career trajectory, Stefan says: "My scientific background ensures that I always seek to deeply understand the mechanisms at play. This curiosity drives me to analyze data meticulously and identify areas ripe for innovation." His pursuit of an executive MBA further honed his strategic vision. "It's not just about creating solutions; it's about ensuring they align with client needs and generate tangible value."

At IQVIA IRT, Stefan's dual role encapsulates both leadership and hands-on involvement. As the Head of the Drug Supply Center of Excellence, he oversees a team of clinical drug supply experts. "Our mission is clear," Stefan says, "to optimize investigational product (IP) management and streamline shipping processes for sites and depots, thereby elevating the performance of clinical trials."

Harnessing advanced technologies for drug accountability​

One of the cornerstones of IQVIA's technological arsenal is the Drug Accountability and Returns Management (DARM) system. Stefan explains its significance: "DARM is pivotal in maintaining compliance and ensuring data integrity throughout clinical trials. It doesn't just flag non-compliant drug entries; it enforces adherence to protocols by mandating meticulous record-keeping of potential deviations. Every action is documented with digital signatures, preserving the sanctity of trial data."

Transitioning from archaic paper-based processes to electronic systems like DARM offers manifold advantages, he says. "Centralizing data storage in real-time not only enhances accessibility but also provides robust support during site inspections," Stefan adds. This shift ensures that all stakeholders have a unified, transparent view of drug management activities.

Ensuring integrity in cold chain logistics​

The realm of cold chain logistics presents its unique set of challenges, given the temperature-sensitive nature of many medicinal products. Stefan highlights the criticality of maintaining end-to-end temperature control. "Within our IRT framework, we integrate cutting-edge technologies like Berlinger’s SmartView," he says. "This integration ensures real-time monitoring of crucial parameters such as temperature, humidity, and location."

Such meticulous monitoring is indispensable, especially for vaccines and advanced medicinal therapies. "Any deviation can compromise the efficacy of these products," Stefan warns. By harnessing comprehensive tracking mechanisms, IQVIA ensures that any anomalies are promptly detected and addressed, safeguarding the integrity of clinical supplies.

Pioneering innovations with machine learning​

The advent of machine learning (ML) has opened new vistas in clinical supply chain management. Stefan is particularly enthusiastic about the transformative potential of these technologies. "Our Mobile IP application exemplifies the integration of ML in clinical trials," he says. "Through advanced image recognition, the app automates pill identification and counting, streamlining the reconciliation process."

Such automation not only alleviates the workload for patients and site personnel but also fortifies drug accountability. "By continuously uploading and recording patient activity related to drugs, the Mobile IP app ensures that data is both accurate and readily accessible," Stefan adds.

Another groundbreaking innovation is IQVIA’s Supply Automation Value Engine (SAVE). "SAVE employs algorithms rooted in ML principles to dynamically adjust supply strategies," Stefan says. "It optimizes buffer stocks, forecasts patient needs, and adapts to any trial adjustments. This proactive approach mitigates risks like overstocking or stock-outs, leading to significant cost savings and reduced waste."

Navigating the complexities of global track and trace systems​

Implementing effective track and trace systems on a global scale is fraught with challenges, Stefan says. "The sheer scale and intricacy of international clinical trial supply chains make achieving the desired level of visibility a daunting task. Moreover, the confluence of technology and evolving regulations adds layers of complexity.

"Balancing advancements in data management with compliance to diverse regulatory standards, including data privacy concerns, requires a nuanced approach," he says.

Addressing these challenges head-on, IQVIA believes its strategies encompass both technological prowess and regulatory acumen. "Our systems incorporate features like electronic signatures and comprehensive audit trails," Stefan says. "These not only enhance transparency but also ensure alignment with regulations such as the Drug Supply Chain Security Act in the US and the European Union’s Falsified Medicines Directive."

Real-world impact: Success stories from the field​

Stefan recounts a compelling case study with Novartis, illustrating the tangible benefits of IQVIA's innovations. "In a global study spanning over a thousand sites, Novartis grappled with challenges like stock-outs due to unscheduled patient visits.". By deploying the SAVE solution, IQVIA says it enabled automatic updates and resupply based on real-time data. "The system assessed risks of unscheduled visits and adjusted buffer stocks accordingly," Stefan adds. The results were impressive, a 73% reduction in shipments, a 76% decrease in site stock-outs, and over $1 million in savings within a single year.

Such success stories, Stefan says, underscore the profound impact of integrating advanced technologies into clinical supply chains. "It's not just about efficiency," Stefan says, "but about ensuring that patients receive the right treatments at the right times, without unnecessary delays or complications."

Embracing the future: Emerging technologies and trends​

Looking ahead, Stefan says he envisions a landscape where technologies like blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) play pivotal roles. "We're already experimenting with trackers in clinical shipments that monitor a plethora of factors, from location and temperature to humidity and shock. The wealth of data harvested from these devices offers unprecedented opportunities for optimization."

Furthermore, Stefan anticipates a shift towards more patient-centric tracking. "There will be an increased emphasis on ensuring that patients adhere to their dosing regimens," he predicts. Such advancements will not only enhance the efficacy of clinical trials but also bolster patient safety.

Guiding organizations towards technological excellence​

Drawing from his extensive experience, Stefan offers sage advice for organizations aiming to elevate their clinical supply chain technologies. "Embrace innovation, but do so strategically. Seek solutions that are adaptable, scalable, and aligned with both current needs and future objectives."

He also underscores the importance of collaboration. "Engaging with technology partners, participating in industry forums, and staying abreast of regulatory developments are crucial. Such proactive engagement ensures that organizations remain at the cutting edge, ready to navigate the evolving landscape of clinical trials."

Final reflections​

As the conversation draws to a close, Stefan reflects on the transformative journey of track and trace systems. "The advancements we've witnessed are just the tip of the iceberg," he muses. "With the continued integration of AI and robust data analytics, the future holds immense promise."

For professionals keen on staying updated, Stefan recommends delving into platforms like IQVIA's DARM, Mobile IP, and SAVE. "These tools not only exemplify the pinnacle of current technology but also offer insights into the future trajectory of clinical supply chains," he concludes.