BEATTIE GOVERNMENT BOOST TO CANCER RESEARCH

The Beattie Government will help fund a $3.7 million cancer research program which will attract cancer clinicians and build Queensland’s reputation as a medical research centre.

Health Minister Stephen Robertson announced the State Government would provide $1.86 million over three years at The Cancer Council Queensland’s annual general meeting last night.

Mr Robertson said Queensland Health would match Cancer Council funding to run a clinical trials data manager program.

“Under the program to kick off in the next few weeks, data managers will be employed within hospital oncology departments to support independent clinical trials,” Mr Robertson said.

“Clinical trials are crucial in developing better patient care and treatment and scientific outcomes. However, participation by clinicians and patients is vital to allow data to be collected and analysed.

“Data managers will greatly assist clinicians by relieving them of the significant data collection burden involved.

“They will also ensure patient eligibility and consent to the trials and compliance with clinical trial study protocols.

“Through this program, clinicians involved in these clinical trials can better focus on their patients without being bogged down in paper work and processes.

“This in turn will help make Queensland a more attractive place for clinicians to work and reaffirm our position as a leading research hub.”

Mr Robertson said the new program was also another example of the strong partnership between the State Government and The Cancer Council Queensland, formerly the Queensland Cancer Fund.

10 May, 2007
MEDIA: Joshua Cooney 3234 1185 or 0409 069 056