UC San Diego Health has responded to claims made in an article published in The Cancer Letter that patient safety and clinical trials at Moores Cancer Center are at risk. The Cancer Letter report raised concerns about the organization’s clinical trials office and called for the suspension of more than 200 clinical trials, alleging a risk to patient safety. UC San Diego Health strongly objected to any suggestion of patient harm or that Moores’ status as a comprehensive cancer center is in jeopardy.
Dr. John M. Carethers, vice chancellor for health services at UC San Diego, refuted the claims, stating that there has been no patient harm from clinical trials and that the institution’s comprehensive cancer center status is secure. He cited a review of adverse event reports and audits by UC San Diego’s compliance office and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which found no problems with adverse event reporting.
While acknowledging that there have been changes in leadership and high turnover in individuals responsible for running clinical trials, Carethers emphasized that there is ongoing work to address these challenges. He also acknowledged the need to increase the number of cancer clinical trials offered to patients and the proportion of novel trials to industry trials.
The Cancer Letter report highlighted concerns raised by an external consultant regarding the functioning of clinical trials at Moores. The consultant reportedly recommended a revamp of the office, and it was noted that there has been a decrease in the number and type of cancer trials offered. UC San Diego Health acknowledged the need for improvements in the clinical trials infrastructure and affirmed its commitment to supporting investigator-initiated trials.
Dr. Joseph Califano III, the center’s former director, recently left his position after just six months, citing a desire to focus on patient care and directing a laboratory focused on head and neck cancer research. Another key researcher, Dr. Ezra Cohen, also recently departed from Moores to join a company utilizing artificial intelligence in clinical care.
The article mentioned that Moores’ external advisory board has expressed confidence in UC San Diego and Moores’ leadership and is not aware of any instances of patient harm. The board highlighted that the issues raised can be addressed.
UC San Diego Health, while acknowledging the need to address challenges, emphasized its commitment to patient safety, quality care, and enhancing its clinical trials program. The institution stated that improvements are being made and expressed confidence in its ability to overcome the issues identified. Moores Cancer Center remains a nationally recognized and designated comprehensive cancer center.
