Local Cancer Care Providers Earn National Recognition for Advancing Cancer Research

Six clinicians who provide oncology services for or on behalf of Ascension Wisconsin have received recognition from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) for enrolling cancer patients in research studies over the past year.

Each year, the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) awards providers who help make cutting-edge cancer treatments possible by enrolling patients in research studies. Research depends on patient participation and providers play a critical role in connecting patients with research opportunities that may change and save lives.

Ascension Wisconsin and the Ascension Wisconsin Research Institute (AWRI) work together to advance cancer care close to home by providing additional compassionate connections throughout the cancer care journey. AWRI's mission is to advance medicine, improve clinical practice and to enable access to innovative treatments and technology.

Together, we congratulate the following providers on their success in helping patients understand the importance of participating in research studies, along with the possible risks and benefits:

Cancer Control & Treatment Accruals

Cancer Care Delivery Research Accruals

SILVER

Kamal Abbi, MD

Meghan Boll, NP

"At Ascension Wisconsin, it is our goal to deliver the best care to those who are most vulnerable," said Dr. Ajay Sahajpal, Medical Director of Ascension Wisconsin's Oncology Service Line. "It's an honor to be recognized for our research. This work reflects the dedication of our providers to drive the future of cancer treatment and care for our patients."

Why Research Studies Matter

• Provide patients access to innovative therapies before they're widely available
• Test new methods for preventing and detecting cancer
• Improve quality of life during and after treatment
• Shape better cancer care for future generations

It is important to acknowledge the critical role research plays in preventing, diagnosing and treating cancer. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. This year alone, the NCI estimates two million people will be diagnosed with cancer.

"Thanks to treatments discovered through clinical trials, people diagnosed with cancer are living longer and healthier lives," oncologist Kamal Abbi , MD said. "Ascension is proud to be part of these medical advancements. We aim to provide compassionate cancer care where it matters most."

For more information about clinical trial opportunities close to home, visit research.ascension.org.

Cancer care is available through Ascension Wisconsin at nine locations:

• Polly and Bill Van Dyke Cancer Center - Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Milwaukee
• Polly and Bill Van Dyke Cancer Center - Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Ozaukee
• Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital - Elmbrook - Sherman Cancer Center
• Ascension All Saints Hospital Cancer Center
• Ascension SE Wisconsin - Mayfair Road - Cancer Care
• Ascension Wisconsin Health Center - Rawson Avenue - Reiman Cancer Center
• Ascension NE Wisconsin - St. Elizabeth Cancer Center
• Mercy Campus Michael D. Wachtel Cancer Center
• Ascension Calumet Hospital