Cancer can happen to anyone, regardless of where they live. Prior to the Regional Trials Network - Victoria and the ReViTALISE project, there were vast populations of regional Victorians living with cancer, not served by centres able to conduct clinical trials. For many, accessibility remains a real challenge, geographically and financially.
The ReViTALISE project has worked tirelessly on expanding our network, to build both capability and capacity in the far corners of Victoria. In collaboration with Alfred Trial Hub and Cancer Trials Australia, the ReVITALISE project has helped establish a research and trials unit at Mildura Base Public Hospital (MBPH).
Since February 2023, the unit has been delivering clinical trials and research to under-served Victorians in the Mallee and Wimmera Southern Mallee regions, supported by mentorship from other regional network member sites. People experiencing cancer in these regions no longer have to travel too far from home to participate in clinical trials.
“With funding from the MRFF, ReVITALISE was also able to help MBPH deliver the necessary infrastructure and technology, including clinic spaces, freezers, and a centrifuge,” says Krishna Rachakonda, medical oncologist at MBPH. The unit consists of two principal investigators (medical oncologists) and three research nurses. A trials unit manager is currently being recruited.
In recent months, MBPH has had over 30 patients enrolled in registry trials (pancreatic, colorectal and prostate) and three in an interventional study (melanoma). More new trials are in the pipeline, including a registry trial for thoracic cancer and a teletrial for lung cancer.
“The establishment of a clinical trials and research unit at this hospital has reduced the burden of travel for many patients,” says Gemma Madigan, a Mildura local and Clinical Trials Research Nurse at MBPH. “Some of our patients require complex care, and our team is able to provide that extra attention to ensure each patient feels supported throughout their clinical trial journey, closer to home.”
The clinical trial and research team are proud to be contributing to better outcomes and quality of life for people living with cancer in their community.
In the photo (L-R): Dr Krishna Rachakonda (PI), Gemma Madigan (Research Nurse), Suzette Treen (Research Nurse) and Dr Jose Leal (PI). Not in photo – Reena Joseph (Research Nurse).