FOMAT Medical Research has expanded its research portfolio by launching a new oncology research unit at its headquarters in Oxnard, California. This initiative brings community-based oncology clinical trials to Ventura and surrounding counties, offering patients local access to innovative cancer treatments. By integrating oncology into its therapeutic offerings, FOMAT aims to accelerate the development of advanced cancer therapies, particularly those that address the unique needs of diverse populations within the community.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, making oncology a critical area of focus for medical research. By expanding into oncology, FOMAT Medical Research seeks to contribute to the development of groundbreaking treatments that could significantly improve patient outcomes. The inclusion of oncology trials in Ventura County represents a strategic step in enhancing FOMAT’s ability to bring advanced therapies directly to patients, especially those from diverse backgrounds who are often underrepresented in clinical research.
Benefits for Patients, Sponsors, and Investigators
This expansion into oncology provides a wide range of benefits. For patients, it means increased access to cutting-edge cancer treatments that might not otherwise be available in their local area. FOMAT’s community-based approach ensures that patients can participate in clinical trials without needing to travel far, which can be a barrier to participation. Additionally, FOMAT is dedicated to ensuring that these trials reflect the diverse demographics of Ventura and surrounding counties, offering particular benefits to populations such as White-Hispanic, Multiracial-Hispanic, Asian-Non-Hispanic, and Multiracial-Non-Hispanic patients.
For industry sponsors, this expansion presents an opportunity to conduct oncology trials with a partner known for its speed and efficiency. FOMAT’s integrated model enables them to quickly bring trials to local communities, providing sponsors with timely access to patient populations and facilitating faster data collection. This move was catalyzed by a request from one of FOMAT’s top pharmaceutical partners, who sought to replicate the organization’s successful track record in other therapeutic areas to oncology.
The benefits extend to Principal Investigators (PIs) as well, who will be able to access FOMAT’s extensive site network and resources. This will enable PIs to enhance their capabilities in conducting clinical trials on advanced oncology treatments, contributing to the development of therapies that could make a real difference in patient care. The inclusion of diverse demographics in these trials ensures that the data collected is representative of a broad spectrum of patient experiences, leading to treatments that are more effective across different population groups.
The Vision and Mission Behind the Expansion
Nicholas Focil, CEO of FOMAT Medical Research, highlighted the strategic vision behind this expansion. “A recent request from one of our top 10 pharmaceutical company clients confirmed and accelerated our existing plans to add community-based oncology trials to our research portfolio. They sought to replicate the speed and effectiveness we have demonstrated across other therapeutic areas within their R&D portfolio to improve patient access to critical oncology trials,” he shared.
Focil emphasized that the expansion into oncology aligns with FOMAT’s mission to make advanced healthcare accessible to diverse and often underrepresented communities. The launch of their first oncology trial, in partnership with renowned oncologist Dr. Nawazish Khan, is a testament to FOMAT’s commitment to this mission. “Our partnership with Dr. Khan is yet another example of our dedication to bringing innovative treatments to the communities we serve. Knowing that we can make a tangible impact in the fight against cancer almost immediately is truly inspiring,” Focil added.
Dr. Nawazish Khan brings a wealth of experience to FOMAT’s oncology trials, with over two decades in clinical research, including roles in cancer and pharmaceutical clinical development. Dr. Khan has dedicated much of his career to improving health outcomes through enhanced access to innovative cancer treatments and believes that integrating diverse demographics into clinical trials is critical for developing therapies that work across various population groups.
Expanding Access to Oncology Trials for Diverse Communities
FOMAT’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its focus on reaching underrepresented populations. By targeting a wide range of demographics within Ventura County, FOMAT aims to make oncology trials more accessible to those who may not typically participate in clinical research. This approach is vital for ensuring that new treatments are developed with a broad understanding of how they affect different patient populations.
For local patients, this expansion means more than just access to new treatments. It represents an opportunity to contribute to research that could lead to better cancer therapies for future generations. FOMAT Medical Research’s community-based approach ensures that oncology trials are conducted close to home, reducing the burden on patients and making participation more convenient.
A Collaborative Path Forward
The partnership between FOMAT Medical Research and Dr. Khan exemplifies the organization’s vision of collaborative, inclusive clinical research. By working together, they aim to bring advanced cancer treatments to Ventura County and surrounding areas, providing patients with access to the latest innovations in oncology care.
Dr. Khan’s experience and expertise are crucial assets to this initiative, and his role as a leader in the initial phase of the oncology unit’s launch underscores FOMAT’s commitment to high-quality, patient-centered research. “Partnering with FOMAT allows me to continue my work in developing and delivering innovative cancer treatments. I am honored to be part of an organization that values diversity and inclusivity in clinical research,” Dr. Khan said.
To learn more about how this collaboration is poised to transform oncology care in Ventura and beyond, read the full press release here.