This session introduces an innovative Digital Display Label (DDL) approach for clinical trial supply labeling, mitigating long-standing limitations of paper labels and earlier electronic concepts. The solution leverages e-paper display technology to present regulatory-required and supplemental information directly on investigational medicinal product packaging, while enabling secure remote updates, multilingual content, and many new features. The development of DDL demonstrates how partnerships, such as those by ECCT, MSD, and SmurfitWestRock, can drive innovations in the clinical supply chain to deliver greater value for patients, clinical sites, and sponsors.

Public, Patient Involvement (PPI) in the journey of innovative medicines has yielded strong results over the past twenty years. That journey does not end with the approval of a therapy but continues in its delivery to the patient. With more home-based clinical trials and the potential for self-administered therapies in the home, the patient perspective on adherence is increasingly important. In this session, Avril will discuss the importance of the patient perspective in innovation from bench to bedside, concept to delivery, and how structured solution-oriented collaboration between stakeholders can advance this space.

Session Summary:
This session highlights how packaging and labeling decisions can make or break a clinical trial. Drawing on real‑world examples as a CRO Supply Chain Manager, Deyana will explore how poor design leads to medication errors and delays, and will showcase how smart, patient‑focused strategies — from color‑coded labels to country‑specific designs — reduce risk, ensure compliance, and support successful patient outcomes.

Key Discussion Points:

•  The High Stakes of Packaging: An introduction to why clear labeling and packaging are the final, critical communication tools for ensuring patients and hospital staff administer medication correctly.
• Lessons from the Field: Real-world examples of badly written labels and faulty packaging that led to improper treatment and dispensation errors. A look at the resulting risks, including patient safety issues, data compromise, and the financial losses caused by incorrectly calculated packaging quantities.
• Customization as Innovation: Moving beyond futuristic concepts to focus on practical, patient-centered strategies. This includes a review of effective solutions such as booklet vs. peel-off labels, color-coding for error reduction, adapting designs for specific country regulations, and tailoring packaging to meet unique storage requirements.
• Conclusion: A Call to Action: A summary of how innovating packaging and labeling activities proactively minimizes risks, keeps studies on schedule, and ensures regulatory adherence.