Three years ago, the Ascension Clinical Research Institute (ACRI) launched a national clinical trials network to bring together research expertise across Ascension and create more opportunities to contribute to meaningful clinical research.

Since the network launched, ACRI has conducted 76 multisite clinical trials and enrolled 5,359 individuals. These trials have a broad clinical footprint, including cardiovascular disease, cancer care, and neurosciences.

Since July 2023, the network has continued to grow, enabling a more strategic approach to clinical research. ACRI identifies the right studies, connects them with sites positioned to succeed, and brings investigators and research teams together systemwide. The result is a stronger foundation for research that can help advance care and improve health.

Turning collaboration into impact

ACRI coordinates key elements of multisite studies and serves as a central point of contact for sponsors, bringing Ascension's clinical capabilities together to support larger-scale research. The network also gives research teams opportunities to share strategies, troubleshoot challenges, and learn from one another rather than solving the same problems independently.

The recent LIBREXIA-STROKE study demonstrates what this approach can make possible. This trial is exploring treatments to prevent recurrent strokes, giving Ascension teams an opportunity to contribute to research that could help shape future care for patients affected by stroke.

More than 1,000 participants were randomized in the United States, including 60 patients enrolled and randomized across five Ascension sites. Ascension Texas enrolled 44 of those patients, making it the third-highest-enrolling site in the country.

Looking ahead

As the Ascension Clinical Trials Network enters its fourth year, the work continues: understanding capabilities across the organization, connecting more investigators, and matching clinical research with the places where we can make the greatest contribution.