The main challenges discussed by experts at the International Clinical Trials Day conference, which took place on 28 May 2025 in Bratislava, were accelerating patient access to new treatment methods and strengthening Slovakia’s participation in international research.
International Clinical Trials Day 2025 brought together leaders in academic and commercial research in Slovakia. On this occasion, a conference for professionals, organized by SLOVACRIN, coordinated by the Faculty of Medicine of UPJŠ in Košice, in cooperation with the European research network ECRIN-ERIC and several academic institutions, was held in Bratislava. The event became a platform for professional dialogue on current challenges and future opportunities in the field of clinical research.
The conference was opened by Ing. Ján Hrinko, PhD., State Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Youth of the Slovak Republic, who emphasized the importance of systematic support for research to improve the quality of healthcare. The audience was then addressed by prof. MUDr. Peter Jarčuška, PhD., Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at UPJŠ in Košice, and prof. Jacques Demotes, Director General of ECRIN-ERIC. Both presented new opportunities for Slovakia to participate in European research infrastructures and emphasized the need for stronger links between academic research and healthcare practice. “Clinical research is not just about drug development. It is one of the most important tools for ensuring that new scientific knowledge is translated into real patient care. We have the capacity and experts in Slovakia – now is the time to make full use of these assets,” said Professor Jarčuška.
Discussions during the conference focused on removing administrative barriers, the need to introduce stable funding for research units (CTUs), and greater participation by Slovakia in international studies. These open the way for patients to gain faster access to modern treatment methods and at the same time increase the competitiveness of Slovak research teams. “Specific proposals were made here on how to improve the conditions for clinical trials in our country – from technical facilities to legislative changes. It appears that the common denominator is a willingness to seek solutions and strengthen public confidence in research as part of the healthcare system,” summarized MUDr. Beáta Čečetková, PhD., Medical Director of SLOVACRIN.
The conclusion of the conference confirmed the growing importance of clinical research for the future of Slovak healthcare. “Slovakia has the potential to become an active
player in the European research area, but for this to happen, the state must ensure adequate conditions that researchers and patients need,” concluded MUDr. Beáta Čečetková from SLOVACRIN.
