BIOGRAPHY My research focuses on maximizing the value we obtain from health care. Not only the value that patients derive from their own care and treatment options, but the value the whole population derives from the public investment in healthcare. I have a PhD in health economics and decision science and over 200 publications on related topics. I conduct economic analysis, from economic evaluation to simulation modelling to policy analysis of administrative data.

What is your interest in clinical trials?
My interest in clinical trials is twofold. First, I am interested in the economic aspects of conducting trials – from which trials should be funded given the limited budgets for trials, to studying the value that interventions studied in trials provide, using cost-effectiveness analysis. Second, I am interested in participation in clinical trials from an economic perspective - whether we can predict how changing modifiable aspects of trial design can change recruitment rates in a cost-effective manner.

Why do you think clinical trials are important?
Well conducted clinical trials can provide the highest level of evidence to inform patient care -but poorly designed trials can be waste of resources, provide interventions that are not affordable, and put patients at harm for no gain in knowledge. I am interested in good investments in clinical trials.

What is your personal philosophy about clinical trial training specifically or mentorship in general?
I would be interested in training students with some training in health economics, who are interested in the economic aspects of clinical trials.

FUN FACT: Our latest research suggests only 2 in 3 trials in Canada meet their recruitment targets… not sure this is that fun, maybe a little depressing!