Northern Indiana Cancer Research Consortium

You may have an opportunity to participate in a clinical trial, which is a research study that seeks answers to questions about new treatments. These trials test new therapies, look at new ways to give treatment, find out how lifestyle changes can help cancer patients or explore ways to keep cancer from recurring. If an opportunity comes up for you to participate in a study, your doctor, nurse and/or members of the study team will explain the purpose of the trial and discuss the benefits and risks with you. Many patients are concerned about the cost of being in a clinical trial. To find out whether or not it is covered by your insurance company, you can talk with members of the study team or a financial counselor.  For more information, call 574-647-7370 or 800-284-7370 or visit NICRC's Web site at www.nicrc.org

Scope of Service

The Oncology Clinical Research Department of Memorial Hospital works through the Northern Indiana Cancer Research Consortium to offer a comprehensive oncology clinical research service that includes:

  • National Cancer Institute sponsored Cooperative Groups
  • Cancer and Leukemia Group B
  • Clinical Trials Support Unit
  • Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group
  • Gynecological Oncology Group
  • National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project
  • North Central Cancer Treatment Group
  • Radiation Therapy Oncology Group
  • Wake Forest University Research Base
  • University of Chicago
  • Hoosier Oncology Group (HOG)
  • Mayo Clinic
  • Pharmaceutical Sponsored Research

Goals of the Research Department:

  • To provide access to state-of-the-art clinical trials for patients in the community and surrounding region.
  • To provide accurate monitoring of patient and protocol while on clinical trial.
  • To provide clinical trials that meets the needs of the community and surrounding region.

The Staff of the Research Office Consists of the following:

  • Director
  • Cancer Control Coordinator, Cancer Control Research Nurse and Clinical Research Associate
  • Oncology Clinical Research Nurses
  • Data Management Staff
  • Regulatory Staff

Participation:

  • Medical Oncologists
  • Radiation Oncologists
  • Radiologists
  • Surgeons (General and Thoracic)
  • Urologists
  • Neurosurgeons
  • Oncology Nurses

Patient Population/Customer Group Served:

  • People who are at high risk for cancer (family history or organ changes) and meet the eligibility requirements for a specific trial.
  • Patients newly diagnosed with cancer.
  • Patients currently treated for cancer.
  • Family members or patients themselves seeking information on clinical trials.
  • Physicians inquiring about availability of clinical trials for their patients.
  • Health care professionals needing information on current treatment for cancer.
  • Patients who have current health problems that meet the guidelines of currently active studies.

Services Provided:

  • Assessment of eligibility for a specific clinical trial
  • Complete patient monitoring while on trial
  • Monitoring of protocol
  • Collaborative care between physician, patient and research nurse
  • Symptom management of clinical trial patient
  • Information for patients and family members