#United States #St. Louis #Mercy Health #cancer screening #Galleri Test

Mercy Joins the fight against cancer

Mercy, one of the U.S.'s leading health systems, is embarking on an innovative clinical study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of GRAIL's Galleri® test, a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test, tailored specifically for Medicare beneficiaries. The three-year research initiative, named the REACH study (NCT05673018), will engage up to 50,000 Medicare recipients. These individuals will receive additional care alongside an annual Galleri test, while the study also includes a group that continues care without the test. This approach is intended to deliver clear insights into the real-world impact of early detection via the Galleri test.

Dr. Damon Broyles, who serves as Mercy's Vice President of Clinical Innovation and the principal investigator for the REACH study, emphasized the importance of such clinical advancements. "We were pioneers in providing MCED tests to our patients and previously contributed to GRAIL's initial clinical research. Our role in the REACH study represents our continuous commitment to enhancing screening and treatment options that are evidence-based, ultimately aiming to improve cancer detection for seniors on Medicare."

Addressing the pressing need for early cancer detection

Age is the most significant factor contributing to cancer risk, making Medicare recipients, especially those aged 65 and older, a demographic in critical need of enhanced early detection capabilities. Statistics reveal that nearly 70% of cancer fatalities in the U.S. last year occurred within this age group. Moreover, over half of all new cancer diagnoses pertain to Medicare beneficiaries, highlighting the urgency of addressing their needs in medical research studies.

The REACH study is specifically recruiting participants who reflect the diverse Medicare population, including individuals often underrepresented in clinical trials. This focus ensures that findings from the study can be generalized across a wider spectrum of patients, enhancing the potential for impactful outcomes in public health.

Eligibility for the study primarily includes patients aged 50 and above who are enrolled in Medicare. Prospective participants interested in learning more about the study can reach out via the provided contact email for further information. 

About Mercy

Mercy stands as one of the largest healthcare systems in the U.S., recognized for its exceptional patient experiences, as evidenced by accolades from NRC Health. Serving millions each year, Mercy operates a comprehensive healthcare framework comprising 55 acute care and specialty hospitals, urgent and convenient care centers, imaging facilities, and pharmacies. With more than 1,000 physician practice locations, the organization boasts over 5,000 physicians and advanced practitioners alongside a workforce exceeding 50,000 caregivers across multiple states, including Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

In the fiscal year 2025 alone, Mercy provided upwards of half a billion dollars in free care and community benefits, comprising traditional charity care and unreimbursed Medicaid. This commitment showcases Mercy's dedication to serving not just its patients but the broader community in times of need.

Looking ahead

As the REACH study progresses, it holds significant promise for transforming how cancer is detected in the Medicare population. By fostering a research environment committed to inclusivity and innovative practices, Mercy is poised to contribute invaluable insights that may reshape early cancer detection protocols and ultimately save lives. This study not only empowers the organization to lead in clinical innovation, but it also significantly bolsters the fight against one of humanity's most daunting health challenges: cancer.