Platform trials are a clinical research methodology that Rigshospitalet and several collaborators are actively working to promote. Unlike traditional clinical trials, platform trials allow the evaluation of several treatments at the same time and on an ongoing basis within a given medical field. This enables faster adaptation of treatment decisions based on new evidence, which can lead to improved patient care.
In contrast to traditional trial models, platform trials create a permanent research structure where multiple treatments can be tested in parallel and on a rolling basis. The design allows for early modification or discontinuation of treatments based on data and predefined stopping rules. This ensures that optimal treatments are identified more rapidly – benefiting patients and improving the use of resources in the healthcare system.
Collaboration in Denmark and the Nordics
The investment in platform trials is part of a broader strategy to future-proof clinical research. Rigshospitalet collaborates with other Danish hospitals and, through the Nordic University Hospital Alliance (NUHA), with several university hospitals across the Nordic countries. A cross-disciplinary working group has conducted a potential assessment which highlights significant benefits of implementing platform trials across medical specialties.
These benefits include improved patient outcomes, potential cost savings by reducing dosage or phasing out ineffective treatments and freeing up time for clinical staff.
To support and expand platform trials, Rigshospitalet has established a dedicated Platform Trial Unit that provides advice and methodological support throughout all stages of trial development – from initial idea to implementation.
Twenty to forty per cent of what we do in healthcare does not provide sufficient value for the patient, says professor in Intensive Care, Anders Perner. More treatments must hit the mark in the future, and platform trials are intended to help achieve this.
Benefits of Platform Trials
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Improved patient care: Enables rapid adjustment of treatments in line with the latest knowledge.
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Efficient use of resources: Supports meaningful and effective resource allocation across departments and specialties.
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Reusable infrastructure: Standardised processes can be used across multiple trials, reducing time and costs.
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Stronger national and international collaboration: Rigshospitalet collaborates with Danish and Nordic hospitals to share knowledge and resources for conducting larger and more robust studies.
Examples of platform trials at Rigshospitalet
Platform trials have been identified as a strategic priority for Rigshospitalet in the coming years across several clinical areas. The first platform trial launched at the hospital is
INCEPT (Intensive Care Platform Trial), focusing on acutely admitted adult patients in intensive care units across Denmark.
Visit incept.dk to learn more about the project
Other platform trials currently under development include:
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Department of Hematology: Dose reduction trials
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Department of Nephrology: Reducing the number of haemodialysis treatments
Learn more about platform trials
Read more about platform trials and Rigshospitalet's work with the method in this article.