Christa Braun-Inglis , DNP , APRN-Rx , FNP-BC , AOCNP , UH Cancer Center assistant researcher , received the National Cancer Institute ( NCI ) Director ’ s Award for her achievements in expanding the role of Advanced Practice Providers ( APPs ) in NCI clinical trials . Oncology APPs like Dr . Braun-Inglis have emerged as a pivotal force in cancer care , making invaluable contributions that benefit patients and advance medical science .

Although APPs have an in-depth knowledge of patient symptoms and procedures , they were previously limited to monitoring treatments and unable to enroll patients in clinical trials . Since 2020 , Dr . Braun-Inglis has been instrumental in expanding the role of APPs in clinical trials . Initially , she led a nationwide survey of APPs that revealed systemic barriers to clinical trials encompassing policies , role integration , and lack of training on trial processes .

Through the efforts of Dr . Braun-Inglis and her Hawai ‘ i team , the NCI reshaped their policies in 2021 , empowering APPs to enroll patients in supportive care trials , such as those addressing nausea , vomiting , financial navigation , and survivorship . They also have the authority to prescribe medications , significantly streamlining the process and expediting enrollment to clinical trials .

“ We have seen quite an increase in APP participation in NCI-sponsored trials both locally and nationally since these changes were made ,” said Dr . Braun-Inglis . “ I am so grateful to see oncology APPs ’ increased participation as I know this will lead to a better quality of life for our cancer patients .”

Since the update in NCI policies , 18 APPs in Hawai ‘ i have successfully adopted these changes in their work . Dr . Braun-Inglis is currently leading national efforts to integrate the APP working groups and task forces by developing initiatives , resources , and opportunities .

Annual Report 2023 | Page 17