Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education, Inc. (Georgia CORE) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education, Inc., commonly known as Georgia CORE, is a nonprofit organization established in 2003 with the mission to reduce the burden of cancer in Georgia through research, education, and advocacy. The organization serves as a catalyst for strengthening Georgia's national leadership in cancer care and research by uniting oncologists, public health professionals, researchers, and educators. Georgia CORE's primary focus is to improve the quality of cancer care and the quality of life for survivors across the state.

Mission and Vision

Georgia CORE's mission is to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research, educational outreach, and effective advocacy to transform the landscape of cancer care and support in Georgia. This includes fostering partnerships, channeling funding to extend research and treatment opportunities, empowering healthcare partners and all Georgians impacted by cancer with the latest information throughout the continuum of care, and engaging and educating government entities on cancer's impact to help identify and secure critical public resources.

Industry Significance

As a leading nonprofit organization in Georgia, Georgia CORE plays a pivotal role in enhancing cancer care through its collaborative approach, which has led to increased access to clinical trials, improved screening programs, and comprehensive support for cancer patients and survivors. The organization's efforts have significantly contributed to Georgia's reputation as a national leader in cancer care and research.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Clinical Trials and Cancer Research: Facilitate access to the latest and most promising cancer treatments through a collaborative community research network.

• Screening and Genetic Risk Assessment: Increase access to cancer screenings and genetic testing, particularly among underserved populations.

• Education and Resources: Provide comprehensive information and resources to cancer patients, survivors, and healthcare providers.

• Advocacy: Engage with policymakers to secure funding and support for cancer care initiatives.

Areas of Specialization

Georgia CORE specializes in the following areas:

• Clinical Trials Navigation: Developing programs to connect patients with appropriate clinical trials.

• Breast Cancer Screening and Genetic Risk Assessment: Offering genetic testing and counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

• Cancer Survivorship Programs: Providing support and resources for cancer survivors.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Clinical Trials Database: Maintaining a comprehensive database of clinical trials available in Georgia.

• Genetic Testing Platforms: Utilizing advanced genetic testing technologies for risk assessment.

Primary Markets Targeted

Georgia CORE primarily targets:

• Underserved Communities: Ensuring access to cancer care in rural and minority populations.

• Healthcare Providers: Collaborating with hospitals, clinics, and research institutions across Georgia.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Georgia CORE's funding is derived from a combination of government grants, private donations, and partnerships with healthcare institutions. In fiscal year 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $3,851,499 and expenses of $3,350,015.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, Georgia CORE has received significant support from various organizations, including:

• Georgia Society of Clinical Oncology: Provided a grant of $100,000 for medical research and general support.

• Northside Hospital: Donated $30,000 for general support.

• Emory University: Contributed $10,000 as a donation.

Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support Georgia CORE's programs, including:

• Clinical Trials Navigation Program: Connecting patients with appropriate clinical trials.

• Breast Cancer Screening and Genetic Risk Assessment: Offering genetic testing and counseling services.

• Educational Resources: Developing and maintaining online platforms like GeorgiaCancerInfo.org.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Initiatives

• Clinical Trials Navigation Program: A three-year pilot program aiming to help oncologists, research teams, patients, and caregivers identify oncology trials closest to where patients reside.

• Breast Cancer Screening and Genetic Risk Assessment: In partnership with the Georgia Department of Public Health, Georgia CORE provides genetic risk assessment, testing, and counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer in 14 health districts.

Target Conditions

• Colorectal Cancer: Through the Georgia Colorectal Cancer Control Program, Georgia CORE provides colorectal screening, education, navigation, and colonoscopies to 15,000 Georgians.

• Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Offering genetic risk assessment and counseling services to identify women at high risk.

Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for program milestones are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Clinical Trials Database: A comprehensive, real-time database of clinical trials available in Georgia, accessible through GeorgiaCancerInfo.org.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Genetic Testing and Counseling: Utilizing advanced genetic testing technologies for risk assessment and providing counseling services to individuals at high risk for hereditary cancers.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

• Lynn M. Durham, Ed.D.: President and Chief Executive Officer.

• Patricia D. Shearer, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S.: Chief Medical Officer.

• Kristina Forbes: Vice President for Administration.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors comprises cancer experts from academic institutions, hospitals, and cancer centers, including:

• Dr. Roland Matthews: Morehouse School of Medicine.

• Dr. Amelia Langston: Emory University School of Medicine.

• Andrew W. Pippas: Piedmont Columbus Regional.

• Dr. Jorge Cortes: Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University.

• Dr. Suresh Ramalingam: Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University.

• Dr. Stephanie Smith Reyes: Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion, St. Joseph's/Candler Hospital.

• Dr. Walter Curran: Piedmont Healthcare.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The cancer care and research market in Georgia is characterized by a collaborative approach among various institutions, including academic centers, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations. The presence of the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Georgia, the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, underscores the state's commitment to advancing cancer care.

Competitor Analysis

• Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University: As Georgia's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winship offers a wide range of cancer care services and conducts extensive research.

• Northside Hospital Cancer Institute: A leading cancer care provider in Georgia, Northside collaborates with Georgia CORE to expand access to cancer care, particularly in under-resourced communities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Georgia CORE has established significant collaborations, including:

• Northside Hospital Cancer Institute: Partnering to expand access to cancer care and resources across Georgia.

• Georgia Department of Public Health: Collaborating to provide genetic risk assessment, testing, and counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer in 14 health districts.

Operational Insights

Georgia CORE differentiates itself through its statewide network, focusing on underserved and rural communities to ensure equitable access to cancer care.