A CTSI team and supported resource is contributing to the Minnesota Cancer Clinical Trials Network (MNCCTN), which aims to expand access to cancer clinical trials for all Minnesotans.
Leveraging existing infrastructure
Since 2013, a CTSI team has worked to implement the OnCore Clinical Trials Management System across the University of Minnesota’s clinical research enterprise, to enable researchers and study teams to better manage a clinical research study throughout its life cycle. Additionally, the team provides ongoing support, training, and resources.
This existing OnCore infrastructure at the U of M, made possible through CTSI’s Clinical and Translational Science Award, provided a solution that didn’t require development from the ground up for the new state-funded partnership between the University of Minnesota and the state’s major health systems.
Providing a tailored solution
“The new cancer clinical trials network required a tailored set-up within OnCore and support for research tracking, reporting, and data management due to its large geographic footprint across the state, and variables in staff expertise in research and systems in use,” said Josh Fehrmann, CTMS director. “But through the OnCore tool, we’re able to develop flexible solutions for a variety of situations while still leveraging the tool’s sophistication to track large, multi-site clinical trials,” Fehrmann said.
Additionally, CTSI’s OnCore team will be providing online training, live and on-demand webinars, and study-specific training for clinical research staff across the network.
OnCore is expected to be used at 18 sites within five different healthcare organizations across the state. These partner organizations include Essentia Health, Fairview Health Services, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Metro-Minnesota Community Oncology Research Consortium, and Sanford Health. The network’s number of sites is anticipated to increase to 28 sites once all have opened.
“Using OnCore across all sites will allow study teams to access data for trial participants throughout the state. Without this tool and the OnCore team to support it, the network would not be able to expand access to UMN research to those who live in Greater Minnesota,” said Marie Rahne, MNCCTN senior manager.
Funded by the State of Minnesota through the U of M’s MnDRIVE initiative, the MNCCTN aims to increase access to potentially lifesaving and life-changing therapies and treatments, strengthen healthcare systems, create more equitable access to care, and potentially improve cancer outcomes throughout the state. Clinical trials in the MNCCTN will originate from the Masonic Cancer Center, the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, and the Hormel Institute.