Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) has supported more than 50 clinical trials since 2016 through its Clinical Research program, in partnership with Innovo Research. These efforts aim to find new methods to prevent, detect, or treat diseases for both pediatric and adult patients in the local community.
Currently, ARC is enrolling participants for five different vaccine and treatment studies. These include research on pediatric migraines, chronic kidney disease, and chronic hives. Previous studies have included vaccine trials for adults and children addressing COVID-19, chicken pox, meningitis; diagnosis studies for autism and lung cancer; and treatment research focused on arthritis, eczema, chronic kidney disease, hot flashes, and influenza.
ARC’s clinical research covers a wide range of conditions and investigates medications and treatments that can be significant for patients. Clinical trials are thorough processes that often take years to complete.
A current long-term study at ARC focuses on the multiple sclerosis (MS) medication BRIUMVI. The 96-week trial monitors the drug’s effectiveness, safety profile, and patient tolerance over time. This study provides Central Texas residents living with MS access to a potential new treatment while allowing researchers to learn more about its long-term effects.
In another recent project related to chronic kidney disease (CKD), ARC researchers conducted a Phase III study involving patients with CKD who also had high proteinuria—a sign of kidney damage. Findings from this study revealed a new approach that reduced protein levels in urine and 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.
Participation in ARC’s research contributes not only to future medical knowledge but also directly impacts patient care within the clinic’s network. Innovo Research partners with ARC as part of a clinically integrated research network comprising 14 major medical organizations across the United States. This national collaboration involves millions of patients overseen by more than 150 physician-led investigation 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.”
ARC serves over 700,000 area residents at 36 locations throughout Central Texas cities since being founded by three Austin physicians in 1980. Its services include primary care as well as specialty programs like those dedicated to Multiple Sclerosis or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Additional amenities offered by most clinics are same-day appointments; around-the-clock scheduling; telemedicine options; an online patient portal; after-hours clinics; nursing support during nights; onsite radiology/lab services; plus targeted specialty programs.
The Austin Chamber of Commerce works separately from these clinical activities but supports regional economic development through partnerships that foster business growth across the Austin area (official website). The Chamber aims at inclusive prosperity by supporting local enterprises through events focused on innovation (official website).
For further information about ongoing studies or participation opportunities at Austin Regional Clinic visit www.austinregionalclinic.com
