Some of the most difficult times offer up the most potential for growth. How we respond to a challenge can define us. Currently, we find ourselves in trying times with much that is out of our control, so we must redirect our focus to what we can control. One thing that we know is within our control is our response to a situation, that is to say, what we do. As Trappist Monk Thomas Merton (1915-1968) said,

“You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith and hope.”

Many states across the US have mandated companies to drastically, if not completely, reduce the in-person/in-office workforce. In the past, working remotely was offered as an option and utilized by many departments within BioTel Research, making for a smoother transition. As we set up an almost fully remote operational staff across all departments and locations, BioTel Research has successfully responded to this challenge by practicing patience and perseverance. A crucial part of this success comes from enhancing communication, as described in last month’s blog post.

The stay-at-home orders are not only keeping people out of the workplace, but also out of hospitals and physician’s offices for visits, presenting myriad challenges to the way clinical trials are being conducted. As a result, BioTel Research continues to work collaboratively with our clients to meet their developing needs. Additionally, BioTel Research has continued to deploy remote monitoring services to assist in overcoming the challenge of the in-person office visit.

So how do we not only overcome a challenge, but go one step further to embrace it and build an even stronger organization? The answer is staying mission focused and drawing closer to our foundation. In order to do this as an organization, we must incorporate reflection. Reflection is vital to productive growth. Upon reflection, we can use both the lessons learned from the past and the goals of the future in order to implement the changes necessary for success.

This pandemic has affected all aspects of life and continues to evolve. This forces us to be vigilant and adapt to the dynamic situation and evaluate where opportunities for improvement may arise. BioTel Research recognizes the moment we are contending with, including the increased challenges experienced by the sites, and will continue to focus on dedicating resources to continuous process improvement and new technology that can be utilized to better our organization.

Throughout the current situation and any future challenges we may face, the mission of BioTel Research remains the same- to help extend and improve the lives of our patients, and we look forward to working closely with our clients and clinical sites to fulfill this mission. As we continue to navigate this worldwide pandemic together, we remain committed to our mission and are ready to adapt to the ever-changing clinical trial landscape with you.