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As defined by the National Cancer Institute, clinical trials, also called cancer treatment or research studies, test new treatments in people with cancer. The goal of this research is to find better ways to treat cancer and help cancer patients. Clinical trials test many types of treatment such as new drugs, new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy, new combinations of treatments or new methods of therapy.
Klabzuba Center Research
In conjunction with physicians on the medical staff at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, the clinical research department at the Klabzuba Cancer Center offers treatment options to patients with cancer and those at a high risk of developing cancer.
Under the guidance of the principal investigator and research administrator, the clinical trial coordinators work closely with referring physicians and medical oncologists to select a treatment protocol for each patient. The coordinators also see that each enrollee fully participates in the informed consent process and has full knowledge regarding the trial in which he or she enrolls.
Research protocols are available through National Cancer Institute sponsored cooperative groups, such as the Southwest Oncology Group and some pharmaceutical groups. Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital is a selected site for two national cancer prevention trials. STAR (Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene) is a clinical trial comparing the effectiveness of tamoxifen with raloxifene for breast cancer prevention. The study is conducted through the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) and supported by the National Cancer Institute.
Clinical trial coordinators monitor patients for their response to therapy during the treatment process. Information regarding each patient's treatment is collected, processed and submitted to the sponsoring institution.
Most of the services are provided in an outpatient setting, usually the physician's office or in the Outpatient Medical Services clinic in the Klabzuba Cancer Center. When hospitalization is required, the clinical trial coordinators provide inpatient assessment and monitoring.
To speak with a clinical trial coordinator, call 1-877-THR-WELL (1-877-847-9355). For more general information regarding clinical trials, contact the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
Cancer Registry
The Cancer Registry is an integral component of Texas Health Fort Worth. This service tracks patients from the point of diagnosis, throughout treatment and beyond. The information is reported to the Texas Cancer Registry and the National Cancer Database in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
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