WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO) is very pleased to name its two 2015 Legislators of the Year, U.S. Representatives Patrick Meehan (R-PA) and Diana DeGette (R-CO). The announcement coincides with the second-annual CRO Innovation Month. This year's theme is "Transforming Patient Centered Drug Development."
Rep. Meehan has been a long-time supporter of economic policies that promote research & development, as well as funding for important research for conditions like cancer, Alzheimer's, ALS and cystic fibrosis. Rep. DeGette helped launch the 21st Century Cures initiative, which seeks to accelerate the pace of cures and medical breakthroughs in the United States. The bill passed the House in July by a vote of 344-77, thanks in large part to the leadership of both of this year's honorees.
ACRO Executive Director Doug Peddicord, PhD: "In Congressman Meehan and Congresswoman DeGette, ACRO is recognizing two outstanding legislators who understand not only the important role clinical research plays in advancing medical innovation but also the economic benefits its brings to communities across the country."
Congressman Patrick Meehan (R-PA): "The region I am honored to represent in Congress is leading the effort for new treatments and cures to some of the most devastating health conditions. I take very seriously my obligation to be a voice for it in Congress and work to advance medical science and improve our communities. I am grateful for this honor and I appreciate ACRO and its membership for the work they do to strengthen our health care system."
Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO): "The work of clinical researchers has been an integral part of keeping our country on the cutting edge of biomedical advancement. It is vital that we continue to use public policy to encourage safety and innovation so we can ensure the needs of American families are met by discoveries in American laboratories."
Photos:
Rep. Meehan with ACRO Board Member Paula Brown Stafford, Quintiles
Rep. DeGette with ACRO Board Member Paula Brown Stafford, Quintiles
ACRO and its members advocate on a global basis for safe, ethical, high-quality medical research so patients can benefit from the development of new treatments and therapies. Its members are dedicated to helping their clients bring efficiency, innovation and value to the clinical research process.
Every year, members of the Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO) conduct more than 11,000 clinical trials in 142 countries around the world. The purpose is simple: bring life-changing medicines to market as efficiently and safely as possible, so patients can get the treatments they need.
Clinical trials today are more responsive, individualized, and effective. CROs are harnessing real-time data analytics and visual reporting software tools; they're building innovative strategic partnerships, and breaking down communication barriers between trial sponsors, trial sites, patients, and even regulators.
About ACRO
The Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO) represents companies that provide a variety of specialized services that support the development of new pharmaceuticals, biologics, and medical devices. The Association provides an active voice for the CRO industry globally. Through its member companies, ACRO helps improve the quality, efficiency and safety of biomedical research. ACRO member companies employ approximately 110,000 professionals worldwide and conduct research in 142 countries. For more information, please visit www.acrohealth.org. Twitter @acrohealth. YouTube @ACROHealthChannel. Facebook. RebelMouse.
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