How Community Oncology Experience Built the Foundation for a Dedicated Phase 1 Research Program: With D. Ross Camidge, MD, PhD; and Justin Call, MD

How This Is Building Me, hosted by world-renowned oncologist D. Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, is a podcast focused on the highs and lows, ups and downs of all those involved with cancer, cancer medicine, and cancer science across the full spectrum of life’s experiences.

In this episode, Dr Camidge sat down with Justin Call, MD. Dr Call is a medical oncologist and hematologist at Utah Cancer Specialists in South Jordan.

Dr Call explained that he has taken a unique professional path, transitioning from practicing as a general community oncologist to becoming a full-time phase 1 principal investigator within a community practice setting. He explained that he grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah in a family of educators and accountants, though he was heavily influenced by several uncles who were physicians, including one oncologist. After completing his medical training at the University of Colorado, he chose community oncology over academia because he wanted to remain a generalist who could treat all tumor types rather than being restricted to a specific disease group. A formative rotation at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers solidified this desire, as Dr Call noted he was impressed by the deep knowledge required to treat various cancers and the positive atmosphere of outpatient care.

Dr Call emphasized that his personal life significantly influenced his career choices. His son, Trevor, was diagnosed with autism at 18 months old. This diagnosis eventually led the family to move from a rural practice in Petoskey, Michigan, back to Utah to access better support services and be closer to family. His son’s experience also inspired Call's wife to earn a master’s degree in special education.

Upon returning to Utah Cancer Specialists, Dr Call initially participated in phase 3 trials. However, he retained an interest in early-phase research from his fellowship days. In 2016, he began building a boutique phase 1 program, initially starting with just 2 hours of dedicated time per week. In 2020, his practice partnered with START (South Texas Accelerated Research Therapeutics) to launch a dedicated, full-time, community-based phase 1 program. Dr Call noted that this model is rare because phase 1 trials are highly competitive and require specialized infrastructure, such as dedicated pharmacists, coordinators, and equipment for processing pharmacokinetic samples.