Precision oncology referrals often begin with a promising molecular match, but a matched trial record does not guarantee practical access. Patients with advanced cancer may need external trial options more than once, and coordinators may become key navigators across institutions, records, eligibility questions, slot availability, waitlists, and travel decisions. This session examines the operational gap between trial identification and trial access, including the role of first-contact staff. Attendees will learn how coordinators can support external trial navigation while avoiding overpromising, protecting patients from avoidable burden, and keeping treating providers informed. Pre-travel feasibility review, role-aware intake communication, escalation pathways, patient counseling, referral templates, and feasibility checklists will be addressed. Participants will leave with a replicable framework for distinguishing exploratory consultations from actionable trial pathways.
CEU: 1.0 ACRP
Speakers:
Joshua Cook, M.S. (Data Science), M.S. (Clinical Research Management), ACRP-PM, CCRC, Clinical Research Coordinator; Adjunct Instructor
Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (Woodlands Davis Office); University of West Florida
Jessica McCullagh, Clinical Research Trainer, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute