Hannah’s experience in the ROCKet trial shines a light on the role of anaesthesia research co-ordinators.
At the 2025 ANZCA Clinical Trials Network (CTN) Strategic Research Workshop in Glenelg, South Australia, the importance of anaesthesia research co-ordinators was highlighted through the story of ROCKet trial patient, Hannah Cozens, during the late breaking ROCKet trial results presentation.
Before her mastectomy at Grampians Health, Ballarat, Hannah was approached by anaesthesia research co-ordinator Natasha Brice about joining the ROCKet trial, which investigated whether ketamine could reduce chronic post-surgical pain. At a vulnerable and anxious time, Natasha’s support and compassion helped Hannah navigate the decision of whether to participate. Encouraged and reassured, Hannah enrolled in the study, an experience she describes as transformative, not only for her own journey but also igniting an interest to become a research advocate.
Hannah’s reflection highlights how research co-ordinators are often the bridge between patients and research. Their ability to engage with empathy, provide clear information, and reassure patients during anxious moments can make all the difference in participation. Even without ever knowing whether she received ketamine or placebo, Hannah felt empowered knowing she had contributed to research that could improve outcomes for future patients.
CTN leaders, including Professor Philip Peyton, Professor Tomas Corcoran, and Professor David Story, noted that trials depend on the generosity of patients, as well as the skilled work of anaesthesia research co-ordinators that often enables participation, particularly in regional centres such as Ballarat and Grampians Health, which achieved the highest recruitment to the ROCKet trial in Australia.
By working at the frontline of research, research co-ordinators not only support individual patients but also strengthen the capacity of the CTN to deliver high-quality, practice-changing trials. Hannah’s story is just one example of the essential role they play in advancing perioperative medicine.
Read the full feature article in the spring edition of the ANZCA Bulletin.
Explore more highlights from the 2025 CTN workshop in our workshop wrap-up.
Banner image: (L–R) Professor Philip Peyton, Professor David Story, Ms Hannah Cozens, Professor Tomas Corcoran and Ms Natasha Brice.
