Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) has participated in more than 50 clinical trials since 2016 through its ARC Clinical Research program. In collaboration with Innovo Research, the clinic explores new methods to prevent, detect, or treat diseases that could benefit both pediatric and adult patients in Central Texas.
Currently, ARC is enrolling participants for five vaccine and treatment studies. These include research on pediatric migraines, chronic kidney disease, and chronic hives. Previous studies have covered vaccines for COVID-19, chicken pox, and meningitis for adults and children; diagnostic studies for autism and lung cancer; as well as treatments for arthritis, eczema, chronic kidney disease, hot flashes, and flu.
The clinic emphasizes that its research addresses a range of conditions by investigating new medications and treatments. Clinical trials are described as long processes that may take years to complete.
One ongoing study at ARC is a 96-week trial evaluating the multiple sclerosis medication BRIUMVI. The study tracks the drug’s effectiveness, safety, and patient tolerance over time. According to ARC, this provides local access to a potential new treatment option while increasing understanding of its long-term benefits.
Another recent study focused on slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in patients with high proteinuria. Researchers found an approach that lowered protein levels in urine and significantly slowed disease progression.
“ARC has been serving the community for over 45 years. In addition to comprehensive, coordinated, primary, specialty, and surgical care, we are proud to find new ways to prevent and treat illness and disease, improve outcomes, and provide Central Texans with access to advanced medical treatment,” said Anas Daghestani, MD, President & CEO of ARC.
ARC notes that participation in its research contributes to advancements in medicine affecting not only their own patients but also others beyond their clinics. Its partner Innovo Research is a network involving 14 medical organizations across the United States with millions of patients participating in nationwide trials led by more than 150 physician-led teams.
“Our partnership with Innovo Research allows ARC to expand healthcare innovation and cutting-edge research, offering patients in our community a unique value,” said Jacques Benun, MD, FAAP, ARC Principal Investigator. “I feel fortunate to be in a position where I can make a difference in advancing medicine while helping our patients achieve their health care goals.”
Founded by three Austin physicians in 1980, Austin Regional Clinic now serves over 700,000 residents at 36 locations across 15 cities in Central Texas. Services include primary care as well as specialty programs such as those for Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). More information about ARC can be found at www.austinregionalclinic.com.
The Austin Chamber of Commerce supports efforts like these by fostering partnerships aimed at regional economic growth and inclusive development within the business community (official website). The organization encourages collaboration among local enterprises so they can thrive together (official website).
