Seeing the future: How Fortrea is shaping the next chapter in ophthalmology trials
Ophthalmology research is moving into an exciting era—one defined by innovation, collaboration, and an uncompromising focus on patients. At Fortrea, we’re not just witnessing this transformation; we’re driving it. Our Ophthalmology Perspectives podcast series brings you straight to the front lines, where science meets strategy and every breakthrough is a story worth telling.
Episode one: Patient-centric innovation: Addressing recruitment challenges in ophthalmology trials
Patient recruitment and retention in ophthalmology trials presents significant challenges. In the first episode of our podcast series, Tanya Richardson talks with Belite Bio about their experiences addressing these issues during clinical trials. You'll learn that success depends not only on numbers but also on empathy, creativity, and tailoring solutions to local circumstances. Every interaction with patients and caregivers is intentionally designed—from easy-to-read brochures to assistance with travel. We use real-world data to locate eligible participants, allowing study teams, CROs and sponsors to have the right access. This episode highlights specific recruitment challenges in the APAC region, where unique strategies like collaborating with local recruitment vendors were necessary to reach key milestones.
Episode two: From complexity to clarity in early-phase ophthalmology trials
What does it take to run a first-in-human ophthalmology trial? In our episode from our Leeds Clinical Pharmacology Unit, you’ll hear how our team turned a highly specialized, pitch-black testing environment into a model of operational excellence. The secret? Pervasive collaboration. By bringing together sponsors, vendors, and our own team, we didn’t just follow the protocol—we stress-tested it, challenged assumptions, and found new solutions. The result: a trial that was not only feasible, but scalable and safe for volunteers. This is what sets Fortrea apart—our culture of curiosity, our purpose-built facilities, and our passion for getting it right.
Episode three: Gene therapy and inherited retinal disease trials complexities
The future of ophthalmology is bright—and complex. Dr. David Hoelscher, Senior Medical Director and Sarah Bolger-Ford, Senior Director within the Ophthalmology section of the Strategic Delivery and Growth group at Fortrea, unpack the unique demands of phase one trials. They share their hands-on experiences in gene therapy and inherited retinal diseases, which require deep experience, careful site selection, and a relentless focus on safety. We talk openly about the emotional and ethical dimensions of vision loss, the burden on patients and caregivers, and the innovations, like optogenetics, that are set to transform care.
Ready to see what’s next?
If you’re leading ophthalmology research you know the stakes—and the opportunities—have never been greater. Fortrea’s Ophthalmology Perspectives podcast is your backstage pass to the ideas, people, and breakthroughs shaping the future of vision science. Listen now, and join us as we turn complexity into clarity, together.
Ready to talk to us about your ophthalmology research – get in touch