The Hub will lead a clinical study to evaluate a device for remote blood sampling in pediatric populations. This initiative aligns with the goals of the BRIDGE project, which seeks to facilitate children's access to clinical trials and promotes research in child and adolescent health.
The COMFORT project, funded by the Innovative Health Initiative Joint Undertaking (IHI JU), brings together over 50 institutions and companies to develop and evaluate micro-blood extraction technologies. The VHIR study will include diverse pediatric patient profiles to assess the device in various healthcare settings.
In the long term, this technology could enable blood sample collection at home or in environments close to children, reducing travel and facilitating participation in clinical studies. Dr. Pere Soler, Head of the Infectious Pathology and Immunodeficiency Unit in Pediatrics at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, emphasizes the commitment to more inclusive research.
Participation in COMFORT complements the objectives of the BRIDGE project, which promotes a decentralized model for pediatric clinical trials through digital transformation and improved accessibility, ensuring all children have equitable opportunities to access innovative therapies.
