Jefferson Regional Jones-Dunklin Cancer Center and the INNOVACORE™ Center for Research & Biotechnology have announced a new strategic partnership aimed at strengthening cancer research and improving patient care across Southeast Arkansas.
The collaboration is focused on expanding access to clinical research and advancing cancer care for rural and underserved populations, with an initial emphasis on enhancing clinical trial opportunities at the Jefferson Regional Jones-Dunklin Cancer Center.
Dr. Brian Campbell, an oncologist and hematologist at Jefferson Regional, said the partnership represents an important step forward for patients in the region.
“At Jefferson Regional, our mission is to provide high-quality care to the communities we serve,” Campbell said. “Partnering with INNOVACORE allows us to bring new opportunities, including clinical trials and research-driven care, directly to patients in Southeast Arkansas. This is a significant step forward for our region and for families who deserve access to the latest advancements without having to travel long distances.”
INNOVACORE President and CEO Dr. Sohail Rao said the collaboration is designed to ensure cutting-edge research reaches communities with the greatest need.
“This partnership reflects a simple principle: breakthrough clinical research must reach the communities where need is greatest,” Rao said. “By aligning our research capabilities with Jefferson Regional’s trusted local care, we can accelerate access to trials, elevate oncology care standards, and build a sustainable model that serves patients with dignity, equity and urgency.”
Jefferson Regional Jones-Dunklin Cancer Center has offered clinical trials for several years, and officials say the new partnership builds on that foundation by creating additional opportunities to advance cancer research and treatment options locally.
By combining Jefferson Regional’s established oncology services with INNOVACORE’s expertise in translational research and clinical trials, the partnership aims to bring cutting-edge studies closer to home, strengthen cancer care throughout the region, and drive innovation in cancer prevention, early detection and treatment.
Leaders from both organizations say the long-term goal is to develop a scalable, patient-centered model for community-integrated cancer research that can improve outcomes for patients across Southeast Arkansas.
More information about the Jefferson Regional Jones-Dunklin Cancer Center is available at www.jrmc.org/services/cancer-care/.
