The Milwaukee VA Medical Center has established itself as a leading institution in cancer clinical research, ranking among the top three facilities out of 132 VA centers contributing to the National Cancer Trials Network. This achievement reflects an extraordinary commitment to advancing cancer treatment through clinical research and providing veterans with cutting-edge care options.
The facility's success is particularly notable in its remarkable patient engagement rates. While the Commission on Cancer requires only a 3% participation rate for new cancer diagnoses, the Milwaukee VA achieved an impressive 13% enrollment rate in 2024. Even more striking is the 60% acceptance rate among eligible veterans approached for trial participation, significantly outperforming private sector recruitment rates.
Personalized Support System Drives Success
The center's innovative "Go on study, get a buddy" approach has proven instrumental in achieving high enrollment rates. "You really do get a partner when you're going through your cancer treatment," explains Monica Elleseg, program specialist. This system pairs each veteran with a dedicated nurse who serves as a personal navigator throughout their cancer journey.
Dr. Adam Currey emphasizes that these navigators handle everything from coordinating with doctors to managing departmental communications, allowing patients to focus entirely on their treatment. This comprehensive support system has received national recognition for its patient-centered approach.
Diverse Research Portfolio
The Milwaukee VA currently operates 26 cancer trials across various specialties. Dr. Elizabeth Gore, section chief for radiation oncology, explains that these studies encompass a broad spectrum of research areas:
- Novel treatment approaches
- Cancer screening methodologies
- Quality-of-life investigations
- Comparative studies of treatment modalities
One notable ongoing study compares the efficacy of radiation versus surgery in early-stage lung cancer treatment, demonstrating the facility's commitment to advancing treatment protocols.
Veterans' Unique Contribution to Cancer Research
"It is the mentality of 'One Team, One Fight,'" notes Amber Bishop, cancer research regulatory specialist and veteran. "They don't do it for personal gain. They do it to help other Veterans. It's a beautiful concept."
The VA's 50-plus years of commitment to cancer research has yielded significant advances in cancer treatment protocols. Dr. Gore emphasizes that veterans' willingness to participate in clinical trials has been instrumental in advancing cancer science and improving treatment methodologies.
Growth and Future Directions
The program has shown remarkable growth, with patient enrollment nearly tripling from 22 in 2022 to 64 in 2023. The research team maintains a strong focus on expanding trial accessibility while ensuring thorough patient education and informed consent.
"The main purpose is being sure that Veterans have access to the highest level of care, which includes clinical trials," Dr. Gore states. "We're always trying to get better, to find the next best treatment for the patients."
The success of Milwaukee VA's cancer research program demonstrates the powerful combination of institutional commitment, patient-centered care, and veterans' altruistic participation in advancing cancer treatment for future generations.
