MARC Achieves Global Clinical Research Site Certification

Challenge

As dementia research continues to evolve, maintaining high standards of quality, governance, and patient engagement is critical. MARC sought to benchmark its operations against a globally recognised standard to validate its practices and reinforce its commitment to ethical, patient-centred research.

Action

In June 2025, MARC voluntarily entered the GCSA assessment process, undergoing a comprehensive evaluation across seven core operational areas: Governance, Site Business Strategy, Workforce Process Quality, Patient Engagement, Feasibility, Study Start-Up & Initiation, and Study Management Operations & Close-Down. The process included documentation review and staff interviews, with assessors noting the team’s professionalism, transparency, and strong internal culture.

Impact

• Global Recognition: MARC successfully passed all seven GCSA modules, joining a growing network of internationally certified research sites.

• Team Empowerment: Staff felt validated and motivated by the constructive feedback and recognition of their professionalism.

• Patient-Centred Excellence: The assessors praised MARC’s ethical approach, robust governance, and dedication to volunteer engagement.

• Organisational Value: The certification reflects positively on the wider Academy of Research and Improvement and the Trust, reinforcing their leadership in dementia research.

Testimonial

"It is lovely to have an external organisation give objective feedback that is so constructive and brings confidence to the team in the way that we are working." - Suzanne Dodge, MARC Manager

Conclusion

MARC’s GCSA certification is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality, people, and patients. It sets a benchmark for dementia research delivery and positions the centre for continued excellence and global collaboration.