Avera Health is set to broaden its cancer research initiatives to the Avera Cancer Institute in Marshall, Minnesota, beginning in 2025. This expansion aims to provide patients in southwest Minnesota with increased access to cancer studies, eliminating the need for extensive travel.
Dr. Ryan Vaca, an oncologist with Avera, highlighted that this expansion will grant patients in South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota access to clinical trial opportunities that previously required long-distance travel. Jessica Moriarty, an advanced oncology certified nurse practitioner at the Avera Cancer Institute, noted that these trials were once only available at major institutions like Mayo Clinic, the University of Minnesota, or in Texas.
Focus on Rural Cancer Care
The announcement coincides with Avera Health's emphasis on rural cancer care, marking National Rural Health Day on November 20. Dr. David Starks, gynecologic oncologist and clinical research director for Avera Cancer Institute, emphasized Avera's commitment by stating, "It is rare that a community cancer center like Avera Cancer Institute would offer options like Phase 1, first-in-human clinical trials, or extend participation in clinical trials to rural sites, but we do."
Avera's oncology program, established in the 1980s, includes a cancer care center in Sioux Falls built in 2010, with similar centers later established in other locations, including Marshall. Avera Sioux Falls initiated cancer research approximately seven years ago, gradually expanding its trial offerings.
Advancing Clinical Trial Capabilities
Avera's ability to conduct research in earlier phases of clinical trials marks a significant advancement. According to Dr. Vaca, Avera is gaining confidence in Phase 1 trials, which are crucial for early-stage drug development. Phase 1 trials primarily focus on determining the safe dosage of new cancer drugs, while Phase 2 trials assess the drug's effectiveness in treating specific cancer types, and Phase 3 trials compare the new drug to the standard of care.
Patients participating in these trials will receive the treatment being studied in addition to the standard of care. The expansion in Marshall is partly facilitated by a new hospital pharmacy, set to open in January, providing ample space for storing and preparing trial medications. Moriarty emphasized the need to replicate the high standards of care established in Sioux Falls and other regions before launching treatment trials in Marshall, initially focusing on research such as studying the genetics of tumors.
Impact on Patients
The availability of clinical trials at the Cancer Institute in Marshall is expected to significantly impact area residents. Dr. Vaca pointed out the challenges of participating in trials that require relocation, balancing proximity to family with access to potentially life-saving treatments. Avera's standardized processes include genetic counseling and screening to identify suitable trials for patients.
Moriarty added that a dedicated research coordinator will review new patients to determine their eligibility for trials, ensuring a consistent level of experience and quality of care comparable to that in Sioux Falls. Avera Marshall has resources to support cancer research and treatment, including radiation oncology and surgical specialists, establishing a strong foundation for cancer care in southwest Minnesota.
