Eckhart Tolle’s Quote and Its Relevance to Clinical Trials
Eckhart Tolle once said, “Awareness is the greatest agent for change,” a quote that deeply resonates with Ashiqua Jackson, DNP, FNP-C. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Dr. Jackson recognized a key reason behind the low minority participation in clinical trials—the lack of awareness about their importance. Before COVID, many people were unaware of clinical research and the critical role clinical trials play in the development of drugs and vaccines. This realization inspired Dr. Jackson to take action.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Memphis
Dr. Jackson took it upon herself to open a healthcare facility aimed at serving the underserved communities in Memphis. The facility not only addresses healthcare disparities in general but also focuses on educating the community about clinical research, particularly in the context of COVID-19.
Launch of AVIATI Healthcare & Clinical Research
In April 2021, Dr. Jackson founded AVIATI Healthcare & Clinical Research. True to her vision, AVIATI is a community-centered facility dedicated to giving back to the Memphis community, while also educating its members on improving health outcomes. This is achieved through patient education and partnerships with patients. The facility is located in Hickory Ridge Mall in the heart of Memphis, specifically in the Hickory Hill area, a neighborhood with a predominantly African-American and Hispanic population. Its central location ensures that it is easily accessible from all parts of Memphis.
Experienced Staff and Wide Range of Services
Dr. Jackson serves as the Clinical Director and Sub-Investigator at AVIATI, supported by a skilled team, including Principal Investigator Dr. Katosha Muse, a family medicine practitioner and obstetrician. The staff also includes a translator and four clinical research coordinators, enabling the team to conduct trials in various therapeutic areas. These include women’s health, primary care, diabetes, hypertension, obesity management, and infant formula research.
Building Partnerships with Local Physicians
AVIATI Healthcare & Clinical Research maintains strong relationships with around 10 local physicians, referred to as community partners. While these physicians may not directly engage in clinical research, they frequently refer suitable patients for clinical trials. Dr. Jackson fosters these partnerships by meeting with the physicians twice a month, ensuring a strong collaborative relationship.
Beyond Clinical Research: AVIATI’s Healthcare Services
Dr. Jackson’s vision for AVIATI extends beyond clinical research. The facility offers a wide range of healthcare services, including weight loss injections, Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exams for commercial drivers, and youth sports physicals. AVIATI is committed to serving the diverse needs of the Memphis community.
Community Outreach Efforts
AVIATI’s community outreach efforts are perhaps its most impactful service. Initially, these efforts began with participation in local health fairs, but they have since expanded significantly. AVIATI’s work in the community has revealed the struggles many families face, prompting the facility to create a “baby’s closet.” This initiative provides essential baby items, such as diapers, car seats, and clothing, to families in need. AVIATI also hosts quarterly giveaways, offering a year’s supply of diapers, gift cards, and more to support families in challenging times.
Educating the Community on Clinical Research
A core mission of AVIATI is to educate the Memphis community and healthcare providers about clinical research and its benefits. The facility emphasizes the importance of minority participation in clinical trials, as it helps reduce healthcare disparities within minority communities. Dr. Jackson takes special care to ensure that the Memphis community understands the value of clinical research and the potential benefits of participation in clinical trials for both individuals and the broader community.
Future Goals and Expansion
Though AVIATI is not a primary care facility, Dr. Jackson is deeply committed to ensuring that every patient feels cared for. At AVIATI, patients are not just numbers—they are listened to and treated with physical contact during examinations, providing a sense of connection. Dr. Jackson’s future goals include expanding the facility’s reach, growing its community outreach programs, and opening additional sites in various communities, all with a focus on serving underserved populations.
Celebrating AVIATI Healthcare & Clinical Research
AVIATI Healthcare & Clinical Research continues to bridge the gap between healthcare, the Memphis community, and clinical research. Dr. Jackson’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes through education, community engagement, and clinical research serves as an inspiration and a model for others to follow.
Myra Fonville is the Executive Editor of Interim Visits magazine. Myra is a former pharmacist who has worked in the clinical research industry for the past 28 years. She brings a wealth of knowledge about pharmacy, pharmaceuticals and clinical research. Myra is very passionate about diversity and health equity which is one of the primary reasons Interim Visits is educating the public about the importance of clinical trials.