In January, members of an American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) task force published a paper in Cancer focused on expanding patient access to clinical trials.
The paper details three strategies to address obstacles related to this goal: clarify proper interpretation of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Form 1572 requirements, increase acceptance of local laboratories and imaging centers, and foster partnerships between research centers and local providers.
FDA Form 1572 offers information on qualifications for both sites and investigators, as well as the importance of following federal regulations. Most investigators go above and beyond the requirements, making it more difficult to facilitate the participation of local patients, providers, and hospitals, the authors explained. By clarifying requirements, these obstacles may be lessened.
In regard to the second strategy, most patients enrolled in clinical trials are expected to travel for safety and efficacy assessments that could be conducted in local laboratories or imaging facilities. The authors noted this change could reduce time and travel burdens.
Lastly, the authors advocated for investing in partnerships between research centers and local hospitals by extending infrastructure and research, which in turn could increase patient access.
“This commentary is a call to action to ensure that all patients with cancer have access to trials and are routinely able to participate in research closer to their home,” the authors noted. “Key to this vision is enabling local clinicians in community oncology programs and practices, where most people with cancer are seen, to facilitate clinical trial participation.”
Source: Cancer, January 9, 2024.
