Defining the Role of the Advanced Practice Provider Within the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Clinical Research
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Advanced practice providers (APPs) are integral to delivering quality cancer care.
• Understanding APP roles in clinical research is crucial for enhancing trial processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the utilization and research-related roles of APPs in the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP).
• To identify opportunities for growth in APP involvement in oncology clinical research.

Main Methods:

• A 2022 survey assessed APP utilization and roles within NCORP practice groups.
• Data from 271 practice groups (90% response rate) were analyzed, focusing on 259 nonpediatric exclusive groups.

Main Results:

• 92% of practices utilized APPs for clinical care and 73% for research activities.
• APPs commonly assisted with trial coordination, patient screening, and consenting, with some serving as enrolling investigators.
• Limited APP involvement was reported in primary investigator roles (5%) and protocol development (3%).

Conclusions:

• APP engagement in NCORP clinical research is significant but has room for expansion.
• Implementing team-based care approaches and supporting APP research time, recognition, and education can enhance research outcomes.
• Findings are applicable to all adult oncology practices participating in clinical research.