Many may not realize that Asante is home to a thriving Cancer Research Department that is making a big impact across southern Oregon and northern California. This small, dedicated team is currently managing 20–25 clinical trials through the Heimann and Spears Cancer Centers, bringing access to cutting-edge treatments to patients right here at home.
The program’s roots trace back to 1999, when oncology nurse Maya Carter, now Asante’s manager of cancer research, and Dr. Charles Dibb, one of the founding physicians of Hematology Oncology Associates (HOA), launched Asante’s first clinical trial in partnership with OHSU. That early breast cancer prevention study had practice-changing results that set the stage for a growing clinical research program in a community setting.
Over the years, the team has expanded and evolved. Today, they are five strong, with deep experience and a shared commitment to ensuring rural patients have access to the same trials often only available in urban, university-based hospitals.
Two recent donor-funded advancements are accelerating this work:
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Florence, a digital platform funded by a grant from the Hillcrest Committee, streamlines the documentation process for clinical trials, allowing the team to open studies faster.
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EPIC Research Module, funded by the Pavel Lomen, MD and Kathleen Lamborn, PhD Fund for Cancer Research established through Asante Foundation, helps identify eligible patients for trials and simplifies enrollment and communication through MyChart.
Donor support is what makes this possible. These innovations are helping Asante expand access to advanced cancer care while contributing meaningful data that helps shape the future of treatment nationwide. As the program grows, Asante can bring more options, more hope, and better outcomes to our community.
“The work of the cancer research team contributes to changing the standard of care for patients. This work changes the future of cancer care, and we are so grateful for the support to make it possible.”
— Maya Carter, Asante’s manager of cancer research