NIH Clinical Center Sees Significant Patient Decline Amid Staffing and Funding Cuts
KFF Health News
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
The NIH Clinical Center has seen a significant decrease in patient numbers, particularly in cancer clinical trials, following workforce reductions and funding cuts during the Trump administration. From an average of over 110 patients daily before the pandemic, numbers plummeted to between 60 and 80, severely impacting research capacity and trial participation. This decline raises concerns about the future of clinical research and treatment accessibility, as the loss of clinicians and drastic funding changes have diminished staff morale and operational effectiveness. The situation highlights the critical link between healthcare policies and the ability of institutions to provide essential clinical services and advance medical research.
