The annual Excellence in Site Performance Awards recognise clinical trial sites that have shown exceptional enthusiasm, performance and dedication to conducting trials, as well as proactive efforts to reduce patient barriers to access trials.
Congratulations to the recipient of the 2025 Site Performance Award in the Regional, Rural and Remote Category – Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
Serving a diverse population across a large geographic area, Sunshine Coast University Hospital faces unique challenges. The region has traditionally been known as a retirement and lifestyle destination, resulting in a higher concentration of older residents. Many in the community also live in low socioeconomic circumstances, which often correlates with reduced health literacy. This demographic reality means the region experiences a higher incidence of gastrointestinal cancers compared to other parts of Australia, highlighting the critical need for accessible trial opportunities.
“Being selected for the Excellence in Site Performance – Rural, Regional, Remote Award was a deeply appreciated honour,” shares the team. “Having our work and site recognised is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and collaboration of our entire team.”
The hospital has developed innovative strategies to overcome these challenges and ensure equitable access to clinical trials. Through satellite sites at Nambour and Gympie, patients in remote areas can participate in research without the burden of extensive travel. The team hosts clinical trial information sessions in community settings outside the hospital, provides trial materials in accessible formats such as Easy Read, and ensures interpreters and cultural liaison officers are available to support participants.
Additional support measures include telehealth consultations, transport assistance, coordinators travelling to regional sites, and flexible scheduling to accommodate work, family, and cultural obligations. The team actively seeks participant feedback to continuously improve accessibility and inclusivity.
As a primary site operating telehealth-enabled clinical trials, Sunshine Coast University Hospital has embraced the teletrial model. Satellite sites are encouraged to be included during trial setup and can be onboarded when potentially eligible patients are identified, ensuring timely access regardless of geographic location.
“In our experience, reducing patient’s travel time and increasing local support has led to noticeable improvements in their wellbeing and their ability to stay consistent with treatment,” the team explains.
The hospital’s multidisciplinary approach extends beyond patient-facing initiatives. Coordinators actively engage in team meetings, ward handovers, and regular trial discussions, while collaborating with specialised departments and other Queensland Health sites to strengthen trial delivery and extend community reach.
When asked what makes Sunshine Coast University Hospital unique, the team points to their wide catchment area and comprehensive approach: “By combining innovative strategies such as our satellite sites, flexible scheduling, community outreach, and multidisciplinary collaboration, we are in the unique position where we can ensure equitable access to clinical trials for all.”
This recognition reinforces their commitment to advancing cancer research and improving outcomes for all patients, regardless of where they live.
Thank you to Dr Michael Allen who accepted the Award at the Annual Scientific Meeting on behalf of the team.
Learn more about the Excellence in Site Performance Award – Regional, Rural and Remote Category