The specific aim of this application is to continue the work of accruing patients to clinical research protocols in order to facilitate determinations regarding the most effective treatment course for cancer therapy. The long-term objectives are to decrease the devastating effects of cancer; to provide Ozark residents with access to state of the art cancer therapy; to facilitate the transfer of technology to physicians in the region; and, to develop participation in cancer control research. To date the Ozarks Regional CCOP has accrued 239 patients to NCI approved protocol in the CCOP II grant period. The CCOP has engaged in many educational programs for Springfield and outlying physicians regarding these protocols. The CCOP effort to incorporate highly trained community oncologists in clinical research increase the involvement of minority and underserved populations in clinical research. The Ozarks region, southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas, is populated by a significant number of the elderly. Over 15% of the catchment area's population is over 65 years of age. Since many of these people are expected to remain on fixed incomes, this is essentially a medically underserved area. There are currently five positions at the CCOP office. These employees include two full-time registered nurses, two part-time registered nurses and one coordinator. An organized centrally located data management system, with computer support is available to the Ozarks regional CCOP. The CCOP personnel have a designated liaison at each consortium hospital with whom they may work. Each R.N. data manager is assigned to a specific physician's office, of a specified length of time. This facilitates communication among the physician affiliates. The Ozarks Regional CCOP will continue to expand the capability of physicians to reach more cancer patients with the benefit of research protocols. The CCOP seeks to reduce cancer incidence, morbidity and mortality by accelerating the transfer of newly developed cancer treatment to widespread community application.
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