Vision, aim and organisation.

The MCRN vision is to ensure the provision of safe and effective medicines for children in the Netherlands.

The most important aim of the MCRN therefore is to establish the evidence base for new and existing drugs that are both safe and effective for children. The network is set up to improve the speed, quality and integration of clinical drug research in children, ultimately resulting in improved patient care.

This national research network provides a world-class environment to conduct clinical trials for children throughout the whole range of paediatric healthcare. It has a major focus on phase I - IV studies, i.e. pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies and clinical trials, but  also includes other study designs relevant to the overall objective.

MCRN collaborate on the vision with the Nederlands Kenniscentrum Farmacotherapie bij Kinderen NKFK (www.nkfk.nl). MCRN aims to be an engine to improve health care for children, and a resource for biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

At the same time, we recognise that a consumer-centred approach is the key to a successful network. MCRN will ensure the involvement of children and their families at every point, from development of research questions, the conduct of the research, and the dissemination of the newly generated information.

MCRN aims to capture the enthusiasm, dedication and skills of multi-professional workers in the complete spectrum of healthcare settings within the population-dense but geographically compact area of the Netherlands, leading to the creation of a research family united by positive core values and mutual respect and trust.

MCRN provides effective leadership and management, creating a successful environment where aspirations to participate in research leading to the improvement of children's health, can be fulfilled. The Coordinating Centre (CC) and the National Trials Support Unit will provide a stimulating environment to conduct clinical trials of medicines for children throughout the whole range of healthcare. Ultimately this will lead to considerable benefits for children because of the new knowledge gained by excellent research and the following improvements in care.