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Putting science to work for our cancer patients, by providing access to modern clinical trials close to home
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What is a clinical trial?
A cancer clinical trial is a research study that allows doctors, nurses, and other providers to find ways to improve cancer care. These studies are designed to answer scientific questions about the safest, most effective ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. Clinical trials can also be used to improve cancer survivors' quality of life.
Why are clinical trials important?
Clinical trials are an important treatment option for many people with cancer. Trials may provide you with access to treatment options that are not otherwise available. Your doctor—and our research specialists— will explain your options and the benefits and potential risks of participating in a research study.
It is important that men and women of all ages and backgrounds participate in clinical trials, as this helps scientists better care for the entire community. Each trial has eligibility criteria, or rules, about who can and cannot be in that study. These criteria are in place to make the research as helpful and valid as possible.
What types of clinical trials are available at Middlesex Health?
At the Middlesex Health Cancer Center, we're constantly researching cutting-edge, innovative treatment options. This allows us to contribute to tests of the effectiveness of new drugs and treatments to find better ways to treat cancer and improve the quality of life for our patients. In addition, patients who volunteer to participate in clinical research trials play a very important role in advancing our knowledge of how cancer responds to new treatments. This knowledge helps us tailor cancer treatment to target the cancer better and increase the likelihood of a response.
Types of Studies
We participate in a wide variety of clinical trials, including National Cancer Institute-sponsored National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) studies and industry-sponsored research. In addition, our membership in The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology, NRG Oncology, and Academic and Community Cancer Research United (ACCRU) gives us expanded access to oncology clinical trials from across the United States and around the world.
Our Clinical Trials Team
Our Clinical Trials Office (CTO) includes two certified research coordinators, a research nurse, and a certified regulatory specialist. This team works with our oncologists, or cancer care doctors, to ensure that each patients is:
- Screened for study eligibility
- Provided with education and support before, during, and after treatment
- Included in research that is conducted according to federal regulations
Mayo Clinic Care Network
Middlesex Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. This allows our oncologists to collaborate with some of the top cancer specialists in the world.