Joseph R. Impicciche JD, MHA Chief Executive Officer | Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, Hoffman Estates
Joseph R. Impicciche JD, MHA Chief Executive Officer | Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, Hoffman Estates
Ascension has published its first Ascension Clinical Research Institute (ACRI) Annual Report, highlighting the organization's commitment to advancing health and wellness through clinical research. The report emphasizes the importance of research in offering new therapies and improving patient care.
Fred Masoudi, MD, MSPH, Chief Science Officer and Vice President of Clinical Research at Ascension, stated, "Our system-wide research enterprise is committed to pursuing discoveries that change the way we prevent disease, and diagnose and treat individuals." He noted that the annual report showcases the work done by investigators, staff, and volunteers to deliver effective interventions for patients.
In fiscal year 2024 alone, Ascension's investigators were involved in over 3,000 active studies and more than 1,000 clinical trials. They also contributed to over 680 scientific publications. ACRI investigators engage in various types of research supported by government entities, foundations, and industry sponsors. Clinicians within Ascension conduct numerous studies on innovative treatments and care strategies.
Dr. Richard Fogel, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at Ascension, remarked on the centrality of patients in their efforts: "At Ascension, our patients are at the center of all we do. In order for us to meet our patients’ needs tomorrow, we must invest in advancing medicine today."
The ACRI provides comprehensive support for clinical research across all participating sites. This includes a multi-site clinical trials coordination center, a unified Institutional Review Board for Ascension, centralized business and legal offices for research activities, therapeutic-area forums for clinical research discussions, and clinical data analytics.
Ascension aims to address representation gaps in its clinical trials through ACRI by ensuring that trial demographics reflect those of their patient population. The organization uses a unified management system for clinical trials to gain insights into participant demographics across its network. This helps identify areas needing improvement and implement measures to enhance diversity.
Through these initiatives, Ascension continues its mission of advancing healthcare while providing equitable care to all.
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