Augusta Health enters into research agreement with Duke

The Augusta Health Cancer Center has entered into an agreement with Duke Medicine to become a research affiliate of the Duke Cancer Institute. Established in 1972 as one of the eight original comprehensive centers designated by the National Cancer Institute, today the Duke Cancer Institute is one of only 40 centers that holds that distinction.

“After exploring several opportunities with large, academic cancer facilities, we found the Duke Cancer Institute to be the most responsive, to have the most robust infrastructure, and to offer the widest breadth of programs for our patients and providers,” said Karen Clark, vice president of professional services at Augusta Health. “Access to clinical trials for our patients is a key component of providing the most advanced cancer care. Our accreditation by the American College of Surgeons as a comprehensive community cancer center, as well as the certification of our breast program with the NAPBC, require a robust clinical structure. We have provided this structure in the past, but our new research affiliation with Duke Cancer Institute will strengthen our program.”

Augusta Health Cancer Center patients will have access to national cooperative group trials and Duke investigator initiated trials. This gives patients local access to the same clinical trials as at other facilities. “In addition to access to clinical trials, the affiliation gives the Augusta Health Cancer Center the opportunity to expand and enhance care for our patients and will broaden the educational opportunities for all cancer care providers at our facility with programs and symposiums presented by the Duke Cancer Institute,” adds Clark.

The Duke Cancer Institute is a patient-centered team of physicians, researchers, educators and staff devoted to cancer research and care. The mission of the Institute is to provide seamless integration of all cancer care, research, and education and training.