Columbia University NCI Community Oncology Research Program

The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center’s NCORP program at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (HICCC/CUIMC/NCORP) has developed a robust and sustainable infrastructure to support the activation and accrual of NCI Clinical Trials Network (NCTN/NCORP) studies. Our program is dedicated to extending high-quality cancer care and clinical trial access to populations within our designated catchment area, particularly those facing limited access to research and comprehensive care. The program’s core aims are to: 1. Expand access to a comprehensive portfolio of NCI-supported trials in cancer prevention, screening, treatment (Phases I–III), care delivery, and biospecimen collection; 2. Enhance accrual by addressing barriers to participation and increasing awareness and availability of trials; 3. Lead and contribute to NCORP/NCTN research efforts, especially those that improve access and reduce the burden in cancer outcomes; 4. Collaborate with NCORP-wide initiatives to drive innovation across the national cancer research landscape. Over the past six years, HICCC/CUIMC/NCORP has activated over 143 trials and enrolled more than 1,513 patients across key focus areas. We have consistently exceeded accrual benchmarks and have taken on leadership roles in multiple national studies. These outcomes reflect the program’s strong integration of research with community engagement and clinical care delivery. By expanding clinical trial access for patients in communities with limited care, we are making measurable progress in reducing outcome gaps and ensuring that advances in cancer care reach all populations.