HASTINGS — A new affiliation between the Morrison Cancer Center and the University of Nebraska Medical Center makes it possible for MCC patients to take part in clinical trials.
UNMC in mid-October approved the Hastings-based cancer center as an affiliate site, according to Sally Molnar, MCC director.
“This means that hematology/oncology patients now may be participants in cooperative group trials at MCC,” Molnar said.
Although Morrison Cancer Center remains a freestanding cancer center under the auspices of Mary Lanning Healthcare, the designation opens the door for patients to use trial therapies during treatment. Dr. M. Sitki Copur and Dr. Pornchai Jonglertham will work with their patients to enroll those who are eligible to participate.
Dr. Copur, who has written many articles about clinical trials in community settings, said the new designation gives he and Dr. Jonglertham more weapons in their arsenal in the fight against cancer.
“And partnering with a well-known academic organization shows patients and their families that they will get the best possible care without traveling to a larger city,” Copur said.
Dr. Jonglertham has worked at MCC since 2010. He said he is excited about the affiliation.
“When patients come to you for help, it is nice to know that we can do everything possible,” he said.
Both Dr. Copur and Dr. Jonglertham are adjunct faculty members at UNMC. Dr. Copur sees patients in Grand Island and Hastings.