#USA #Durham #American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases #Cirrhosis Quality Collaborative #TARGET-LD

AASLD Opens Call for Applications for TARGET-LD

The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) is now inviting its members to step forward as principal investigators for the TARGET-LD initiative, a pioneering project that focuses on the outcomes of patients afflicted with chronic liver disease (CLD) and cirrhosis. This provides a unique platform for healthcare professionals to engage in extensive research aimed at understanding the complexities of liver diseases and improving patient care outcomes.

Understanding TARGET-LD

TARGET-LD stands out as a robust research consortium, renowned for its technological advancement and breadth of study. By understanding the natural history and health outcomes associated with liver diseases, participating sites can contribute to a more profound body of knowledge in this critical area of healthcare. This initiative also incorporates the AASLD Cirrhosis Quality Collaborative (CQC Registry), allowing for comprehensive data collection and shared learning across numerous sites.

The CQC Registry is designed to gather data on quality measures across facilities, highlighting variations in patient care and outcomes, and facilitating improved practices through collaborative efforts. Engaging in this registry means participating in an organized effort to enhance the quality of care available to those suffering from chronic liver diseases.

What Are the Benefits?

Participating sites in the TARGET-LD and CQC initiatives will have several key advantages:

• - Access to an Interactive Dashboard: Participants will benefit from a dashboard offering aggregate results related to essential clinical improvement measures. This resource is instrumental for benchmarking and enhancing local care standards, fostering a proactive approach among healthcare teams.

• - Secure Data Environment: Investigators, along with their colleagues and fellows, will access a secure space to explore available data. This resource allows for the analysis of variables that are pertinent for developing research queries and refining publication concepts.

• - Filtering Tools: These tools are provided to streamline the site data investigation, aiding in identifying potential patient eligibility for clinical trials and supporting grant proposal preparations.

• - De-Identified Data Analysis: The platform allows credentialed users to compile and analyze de-identified patient data for specific project needs, thus supporting extensive research undertakings.

• - Participation in Prospective Studies: Participating sites can enroll patients in prospective studies associated with TARGET-LD, further contributing to the collective understanding of liver disease through patient-reported outcomes and biobanking efforts.

“By engaging in the CQC, not only will sites gain access to unparalleled data resources, but they will also foster opportunities for collaborative growth and expertise,” explains Dr. Grace L. Su, the AASLD President for 2025. “This partnership is pivotal for advancing research while simultaneously allowing participants to contribute to the broader hepatology community.”

A Multisite Learning Network

The CQC Registry acts as a multisite learning network under AASLD leadership, focusing on the advancement of care for cirrhosis patients through a commitment to collaboration and meticulous quality enhancement. This strategic collaboration between Target RWE and AASLD aims to meet the growing demand for a comprehensive registry that captures the real-world experiences of patients battling chronic liver diseases.

Since its inception in 2015 with the TARGET-NASH registry, co-founded by former AASLD President Dr. Michael W. Fried, the initiative has evolved. TARGET-LD now encompasses a wide spectrum of liver-related conditions such as MASLD, MASH, HBV, HCC, PBC, PSC, cirrhosis, Alpha-1, ALD, and Wilson's disease, unveiling new insights into their progression and treatment methodologies.

How to Apply

Healthcare professionals interested in being part of the TARGET-LD and CQC initiatives should take note: applications are open until April 15, 2025. For more information or to submit your application, please visit AASLD official website or contact them directly at [email protected].

In conclusion, this initiative is not just about gathering data; it’s an opportunity for healthcare professionals to be part of a larger movement towards enhanced patient care for chronic liver diseases, contributing substantial findings that could inform future treatment strategies.