Research and clinical trials

As part of HCA UK, Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK (SCRI UK) provides access to cutting-edge therapies. We are the first and only unit outside the NHS to offer new anti-cancer drugs in therapeutic clinical trials. All our trials are open to both private and NHS patients.


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About clinical trials at HCA Healthcare UK

At HCA UK we’re committed to advancing medicine and improving the lives of people with cancer. We are proud to be the only private healthcare provider in the UK to operate a dedicated clinical trials facility, the Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI).

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About the Sarah Cannon Research Institute

Sarah Cannon is a global leader in cancer research and has been personalising medicine and transforming care for more than 25 years.

Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK was established as part of the Sarah Cannon global network in 2010. We are driven by an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of people with cancer, through clinical research, innovative new treatments and personalised medicine.

A closer look at clinical trials

What is a clinical trial

A clinical trial is a research study that compares how effective different treatments are. There are different types of clinical trials, but they are all highly regulated and closely monitored to ensure safety. Access to clinical trials means you may be one of the first people to benefit from a new treatment.

It’s important to remember that not all clinical trials result in new, better treatments, as they are still in development. If your consultant thinks you may benefit from a clinical trial, they will discuss this with you in detail so that you can make an informed decision about taking part.

Every trial is conducted by a principal investigator, who is an experienced oncologist, and is supported by a carefully selected research team. This team includes clinical research fellows and research nurses, who provide nursing care and act as your personal advocate throughout treatment.

Why would I take part in a clinical trial

There are a number of reasons why you might take part in a clinical trial. In some cases, a clinical trial might be the first opportunity to receive a new drug, or a new combination of drugs, that might help to control your cancer. 

A clinical trial may also represent a new treatment option if your cancer has not, or has stopped, responding to standard treatment options.

Many people who participate in clinical trials are proud of the contribution they are making to the future of cancer treatment, for themselves and for patients around the world.

Safety and clinical trials

Every step is taken to ensure that clinical trials are safe. There is a strict participation criteria and trials are regulated by rigorous protocols that are regularly reviewed and updated to make sure we take all the steps we can to minimise risk.

However, any trial or treatment comes with risks. This is why we work in a dedicated clinical research facility with highly trained experts. If you would like to participate in a clinical trial, the team will discuss the individual trial with you and explain any associated risks. So that you can make an informed decision about taking part.

How do I find out if there are any clinical trials available to me

A good place to start is with your consultant. They will be able to advise if a trial is an option for your cancer. Alternatively you can get in touch with the team directly.