The BCRC staff works with physicians, pharmaceutical companies, the National Institutes of Health, the National Cancer Institute, the Gynecologic Oncology Group and other research organizations to test original ideas, new medical equipment and technology, and medications.
Current clinical research trials at Baptist


What is a Clinical Trial?
A clinical trial is a research study conducted with volunteers to answer specific health questions. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work and improve patient care. Interventional trials determine whether new treatments or ways of using known therapies are safe and effective in controlled environments. Observational trials address health issues in large groups of people or populations in natural settings.
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Safety of Participants
The safety of the patient is the top priority of the Baptist Clinical Research Center. Baptist Memorial Hospital's institutional review board reviews and approves all research studies, assessing risks and benefits. The IRB then periodically reviews the study’s progress, effectiveness and safety. Participating patients, their families and physicians are provided with ongoing support and information regarding patient ethics and informed consent.
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Benefits of Clinical Trials
- New and improved treatment options for patients
- Fewer side effects
- Latest treatment options close to home
- New standards of care
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Things You Should Know About Clinical Trials
- Any known side effects or risks of a specific medication or medical device are presented in detail prior to enrollment.
- Research studies usually involve more frequent follow-up, and you must be able to commit to keeping appointments with your doctor.
- Research studies require very rigid medication schedules, and you must be willing to take medications on time.
- Significant new findings that may affect your willingness to continue participating in the study will be provided as they become available.
- If concerns about patient care or safety arise, the study is terminated. Your doctor or the study coordinators can also discontinue a study if they have safety concerns.
- Most studies are on an "intent to treat" basis, meaning once a patient is enrolled, they will be followed until the end of the study, whether or not they received the treatment or study medicine. This would include office visits and telephone contacts.
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Additional resources about clinical trials
Clinical Trials.gov - A Service of the National Institutes of Health
Thompson CenterWatch Clinical Trials Listing Service
Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center
National Institutes of Health
Baptist Clinical Research Center
6025 Walnut Grove Rd., Suite 500
Memphis, TN 38120
Telephone: (901) 226-3077
FAX: (901) 226-1021
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