Conducting clinical investigation in oncology is an integral part of the professional activities of oncologists and serves the mission of improving the survival and quality of life for cancer patients. With this statement, ASCO Statement on Minimum Standards & Attributes of Exemplary Clinical Trial Sites, ASCO affirms the basic standards for conducting research (compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines), as well as describes the characteristics of exemplary sites.

An ongoing article series in the Journal of Oncology Practice will provide practical information on how to implement the GCP guidelines and exemplary attributes. Topics will include: implementing GCP, promoting quality assurance, continuing education, working with your IRB(s), developing a cost neutral clinical research enterprise, surviving the audit process, marketing and outreach, and enhancing your participation in the research process.

ASCO Outlines minimum Standards & Exemplary Attributes for Research Sites: Preview tools to Be Provided (JOP Jul 2008: 185-187.)

Good Clinical Practice Research Guidelines Reviewed, Emphasis Given to Responsibilities of Investigators: Second Article in a Series (JOP Sep 2008: 233-235.)

Quality Assurance and Educational Standards for Clinical Trial Sites (JOP Nov 2008: 280-282)

The next article in this series, to be published in the January 2009 issue of JOP, discusses one of the challenges to any research site implementing a clinical trial program: the audit process.

Email researchresources@asco.org to be notified as new articles, tools and resources become available.