No referrals to clinical trials of other cancer institutes
I learned that the cancer center providing my care does not generally refer patients to clinical trials of other cancer centers. I obtained a second opinion regarding my care at one of the country's most prestigious cancer centers. There, after I asked, I was told that they do not refer their patients to clinical trials of other cancer institutes.
It would seem that making such referals would be extremely beneficial to the patient and to those looking for better treatment for or a cure for cancer. Shouldn't the prostate cancer treatment and research community have the benefit of being able to identify those appropriate for a particular clinical trial (assuming permission from the patient)? Most importantly, If I knew about a clinical trial appropriate for me, it could save my life!
Why don't the cancer institutes cooperate in this regard? Is there some organization that matches would be participants with clinical trials of other institutions? If not, what is the barrier? I would be willing to communicate with such an organization regarding my cancer if I thought it might mean access to a lifesaving protocol. From an ethical standpoint, how could my medical provider know of a clinical trial which could save or significantly prolong the duration or quality of my life, but fail to bring it to my attention because it's being done at another cancer?
Hi
. Certainly no argument here that clinical trials should be easier to find and access. The problem of doctors at smaller or more remote centers not being aware of trials is one thing (although, as practicing doctors, it is not that tough for them to find what is out there), but the idea that centers are simply not referring patients to trials at other centers is fairly unconscionable. I found this research article looking at motivations and barriers to cancer clinical trials: https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cncr.35044. It discusses why off-site referrals happen so infrequently, barriers, and potential solutions. Honestly, most of the issues seem like they should not be difficult to overcome - other than financial and what sound like simple lack of will.
I do also want to share this article from the National Cancer Institute on finding clinical trials: https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials-search/steps. It is definitely helpful, but it really seems that so much of the effort shouldn't be put on the patients. As you note, the medical community should want to get those in need and potentially eligible into trial screening. Thanks you for raising this important topic. Best, Richard (Team Member)
