Research & Clinical Trials
NEXT Oncology Virginia
Providing Expanded Access to Advanced Cancer Treatments and Clinical Trials
Expanding vital cancer research and clinical trial access in the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Virginia Cancer Specialists Research Institute and NEXT Oncology Virginia have contributed to the development of numerous new drugs and therapeutics. While improving the availability of innovative treatment options for many patients, this collaboration also provides hope for patients whose current treatment options may be exhausted and no longer viable.
At NEXT Oncology Virginia, patients in Northern Virginia and beyond have access to a full spectrum of research and clinical trials. Contact us today — we will help review your clinical trial options, answer questions and arrange a consultation.
Working together with patients and referring colleagues, our facility offers:
- A premier oncology research program in Northern Virginia and the surrounding DC area, and a referral source for the Mid-Atlantic region.
- Early drug development trials of novel therapeutics through NEXT Oncology Virginia.
- Clinical trials across the entire cancer spectrum, for all our patients.
NEXT Oncology has joined forces with the Virginia Cancer Specialists Research Institute to form NEXT Oncology Virginia. This joint venture expands critical access and brings the latest in new agents and anticancer treatments to patients.
We take pride in the fact that we offer such a broad range of clinical trials — the largest of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Alex Spira, MD, PhD, FACP
Medical Oncologist
Phase I oncology trials are an important step in the drug development process. They can:
- Enable patients to actively engage in their medical care.
- Provide patients with access to novel treatments not yet commercially available.
- Help future patients on the path to new, transformative discoveries.
Our Team
Alex Spira, MD, PhD, FACP
Co-Director, Virginia Cancer Specialists Research Institute and Director, Thoracic and Phase I Program — View profile
Mitul Gandhi, MD
Co-Director, Virginia Cancer Specialists Research Institute and Director, Hematologic Malignancies Program — View profile
Millicent Mutisya, RN, MS, FNP-BC
Virginia Cancer Specialists Research Institute, Clinical Trials — View profile
M. Adham Salkeni, MD, FRCPC
Medical Oncologist, Research & Clinical Trials — View profile
Clinical Trial Locations
Clinical trials are available throughout Northern Virginia at all Virginia Cancer Specialists sites of service, with early drug development trials (Phase I) centered in the Cancer Center in Fairfax, Virginia.
- Alexandria
- Arlington
- Fairfax
- Bristow
- Fauquier
- Reston
- Woodbridge
Frequently Asked Questions
What are clinical trials and how can I participate?
Clinical trials are research studies conducted with patient volunteers to assess the benefit of novel therapies, in an effort to improve long-term outcomes for a particular disease. Each study has eligibility criteria to determine who can and cannot participate. The research team carefully evaluates each patient referred for a clinical trial to ensure they meet the criteria.
To participate in an open trial, a patient must be given the opportunity to read and review a consent form specific to that trial. Upon providing written informed consent, the patient enters a screening period to complete the requirements outlined by the study. Following this, provided all criteria are met, the patient enrolls and begins study treatment.
What are the benefits of participating in clinical trials?
While participation is fully voluntary, there are several benefits to pursuing a clinical trial. Patients may gain access to novel treatments not yet commercially available that can benefit their outcome. Trial participation also enables patients to actively engage in their medical care while simultaneously helping future patients on the path to new, transformative discoveries.
How do clinical trials bridge the gap between research and effective cancer treatment?
Clinical trials serve as the foundation of all cancer treatment and give patients a chance to access the latest therapies. Despite continual advancements, only 3% of patients participate in clinical trials, often due to misinformation from their providers — when in many cases a clinical trial may be the most promising option.
Who pays for clinical trials?
Prior to entering the research program, clinical trial costs will be discussed and any questions answered by our professional billing specialist.
Request Clinical Trial Information
Send us your details and our research team will review your clinical trial options, answer your questions and arrange a consultation.
Prefer to Speak With Someone?
Our research team is available by phone or email if you would rather not use the form.
Related Treatment Areas & Resources
Use these links to continue through the Virginia Cancer Specialists treatment, support, and research content ecosystem.
Clinical Trials & Research
VCS Research Institute
Molecular Tumor Board / Personalized Medicine
Immunotherapy / Immuno-Oncology
Ready to Make an Appointment?
If you have questions about whether this treatment or service may be right for you, make an appointment with the Virginia Cancer Specialists team.