What is required when transferring any trial-related duty to a CRO?

• A. A General Statement in a Memo
• B. Documentation in Writing Specifying the Duties
• C. Only a Verbal Agreement
• D. No Documentation Is Required

Answer: (B)

When transferring any trial-related duty to a CRO, you must have a written document that clearly defines the duties being delegated. This written agreement should spell out the scope of work, specific responsibilities, oversight and monitoring requirements, reporting timelines, and any performance standards or deliverables. This ensures accountability, regulatory compliance, and that sponsors maintain overall responsibility for the trial while providing a clear basis for audits and inspections.

Verbal agreements or vague memos aren’t enough because they lack detail, enforceability, and a formal trail for oversight. No documentation at all leaves critical obligations undefined and creates gaps in safety reporting, data integrity, and protocol adherence. A properly written delegation helps ensure the CRO knows exactly what is expected and the sponsor can verify that duties are performed in line with GCP and the trial protocol.