Expert Interviews
Bridging Science and Access: How Clinical Research Is Transforming Patient Care in Latin America
In this interview, we are pleased to feature Dr. Doull Stanley Sabillón Zelaya , a seasoned clinical operations professional with extensive experience across Latin America. Dr. Ramírez shares valuable insights into the complexities of multinational trials, site engagement, and the role of research in expanding access to innovative therapies.
ABRS: You’ve led clinical trials across Central and South America. What are the main challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered when managing multinational studies in the region?
Dr. Sabillón: One of the main challenges I’ve encountered is regulatory heterogeneity. Each country has its own health authority, timelines, and ethical requirements. For example, COFEPRIS in Mexico, INVIMA in Colombia, or ANMAT in Argentina operate under different processes, which can complicate synchronization between sites.
I’ve also observed variability in site capabilities—some are highly experienced, while others need more support in infrastructure, technology access, or GCP knowledge. Patient retention can be impacted by social and geographic factors, including transportation issues and economic instability.
Another ongoing challenge is the high turnover of site staff, which requires frequent retraining. Logistics and customs procedures for importing investigational products or equipment also vary widely across countries.
That said, there are also major opportunities in the region. There is a high availability of motivated patients, particularly for underrepresented conditions. Several high-performing research sites—especially in countries like Peru, Colombia, and Panama—meet international quality standards.
In addition, costs are often more competitive than in North America or Europe, and strong academic partnerships and growing clinical infrastructure make Latin America increasingly attractive for global studies.
ABRS: our experience includes both project coordination and direct engagement with healthcare professionals as a Scientific Liaison. How has that shaped your understanding of the link between science, research, and patient access?
Dr. Sabillón: My dual role as a Medical Scientific Liaison and clinical project manager gave me a broader perspective on how translational science, operational execution, and patient access are deeply connected.
Through direct conversations with investigators, key opinion leaders, and clinical teams, I’ve gained not only a stronger scientific understanding but also a much clearer view of patients’ real needs across the region.
As a scientific advisor, I’ve worked to translate evidence into practical clinical language while also identifying how regulatory, logistical, or economic barriers can delay access to innovative treatments—even when the science is strong.
This insight has guided my approach to site and investigator selection, ensuring teams are not only competent but ethically driven. It also helps ensure that trial operations remain aligned with international standards while adapting to local context and constraints.
For me, clinical trials are not just a development phase—they are also a critical access tool for populations that are often overlooked in traditional healthcare systems.
ABRS: You’ve worked across multiple therapeutic areas—including vaccines, respiratory disease, and oncology. Which area has been most meaningful for you?
Dr. Sabillón: Each area has offered unique learnings, but oncology has had the most personal and professional impact.
It has shown me how clinical trials can be a lifeline for patients with few other options. I’ve seen how timely access to an investigational therapy can radically improve patient outcomes—and sometimes offer hope where there was none.
That said, vaccine and respiratory studies were also meaningful, especially during the pandemic. They helped me connect with the public health and preventive value of research, and the need for operational excellence under urgent timelines.
Overall, oncology stands out for its complexity, emotional impact, and close relationship with cutting-edge science.
ABRS: You’ve trained dozens of institutions and worked with leading physicians. What do you see as the key elements to building scientific trust and engagement in the clinical community?
Dr. Sabillón: Trust is not built by simply presenting data—it’s about fostering authentic relationships based on mutual respect and credibility.
From my experience, three elements are essential:
Active listening and open scientific dialogue. It’s important to create spaces where investigators can share their clinical observations and feel their insights are valued. Knowledge flows both ways.
Consistency and transparency. Clinical leaders appreciate honest communication, even when data is still emerging. Consistent, evidence-based messaging earns long-term trust.
Sustained, context-aware support. Being present beyond protocol initiation—through follow-up, team alignment, and barrier resolution—deepens engagement.
I aim to be a trusted scientific partner, not just a spokesperson for data. When clinical teams feel heard and supported, their commitment to research not only lasts—it grows.
ABRS: With a background in pharmacy and certifications in research and ethics, what advice would you offer to young professionals in Latin America entering the field?
Dr. Sabillón: My main advice is to view clinical research not just as a technical career, but as a mission with real patient impact.
Latin America has tremendous human talent and critical clinical needs. We need more professionals who are well-trained, ethically grounded, and committed to raising research standards across the region.
I see three key pillars for those starting out:
Solid education and lifelong learning. A strong technical base is essential—whether from pharmacy, medicine, or nursing—but staying updated on GCP, regulations, and study operations is what sets professionals apart.
Collaborative and resilient mindset. This is a multidisciplinary, highly regulated field that constantly evolves. Being adaptable and team-oriented is key.
Ethical commitment and purpose. Every visit, every datapoint can impact someone’s health. Remembering that there’s a human behind the data helps us work with greater responsibility and empathy.
Clinical research is growing in our region—and we need young professionals who aren’t just looking for a job, but who want to help elevate science and access in Latin America.
We sincerely thank our guest for sharing their perspective and dedication to advancing ethical, high-quality research in Latin America. Their experience is a reminder that when research is done with purpose, it can truly change lives.