Therapeutic Areas

Gastroenterology
Infections and Infectious Diseases

Center Overview

Here at Advanced Gastroenterology Associates, with two conveniently located offices in beautiful Palm Harbor and Dunedin, FL, we specialize in the most advanced procedures and technologies while at the same time taking a conservative approach to care. Although our physicians are all board certified in both Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, we specialize in the body’s internal digestive organs, utilizing the most up to date endoscopic techniques that offer less inconvenience and a faster recovery time for our patients.

Our physicians and staff work together on all clinical trials and we have a dedicated and highly motivated Clinical Research Coordinator who offers the highest quality patient care, attention to accuracy and Good Clinical Practice in conducting research.

Clinical Research Experience

The following is a list of conditions frequently encountered in our practices(this is only a partial list):

• Ulcerative Colitis
• NSAID associated Gastric Ulcers
• Hepatitis C
• Crohn's Disease
• Duodenal Ulcers
• H. Pylori Eradication
• Erosive GERD
• Non Erosive GERD
• Erosive Reflux Esophagitis
• Erosive Esophagitis
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Dyspepsia
• Acute Diverticulitis
• Chronic Constipation

For over 15 years now we have been working with Sponsors like Johnson & Johnson, Centecor, Tibotec, Astra Zeneca, HMPL, Shire, Proctor Gamble, Alizyme Therapeutics, Promethius and Ockham and CRO's such as Quintile, Icon and Covance.

Facility Description

Our study office is located in Palm Harbor, FL on US Highway 19 North, with easy access to public transportation and ample parking.

This office features a dedicated exam room, laboratory with centrifuge, freezer, secure drug closet, separate and secure study materials office, and storage area for lab supplies. There is ample monitoring space with access to a photocopier, phone, fax, and internet. Monitors are welcome to use our kitchen area which features a fridge and a microwave.

Investigator Experience

Jawahar L. Taunk, M.D. is a Board Certified Gastroenterologist who has been in private practice since 1993 and conducting research studies for over 15 years.

Sanjiv P. Amin, DO is a Board Certified Gastroenterologist who has been in private practice since 2003 and conducting research studies for over 5 years.

Mirela Onea, M.D. is Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Qualifying for Gastroenterology G.I. Her experience includes 7 research publicaitons and her specialties are Upper Gl Endoscopy/BRAVO PH capsule. She has won awards, such as five Governmental Scholarships in recognition of academic achievement and the Merit Scholarship for highest GPA in medical school academic year.

To date this office has participated in over 40 clinical studies including: 4 Phase-II studies, 32 Phase-III studies and 5 Phase-IV studies in many different digestive disorders.

Staff Expertise

Joanne Root, CCRC - Over 10 years of clinical research experience, ACRP certified as a research coordinator. Other certifications include: NIH, ICH-GCP, Biological Substance, Infectious Disease and Related Hazard shipping. Experienced in over 60 global trials; which includes experience in the fields of Gastroenterology, Oncology and Rheumatology.

Patient Demographics

Our patient database is extensive as we are in a suburban area with an approximate population of 200,000. The community is a good mix of Caucasian, Hispanic, African-American and Asian with a positive attitude towards participation in clinical research studies.

Other Information

We utilize central IRB with our various trials and we do not require local IRB approval for inpatients.

Contact Center

If you are interested in contacting this center to discuss placing a clinical trial there, please complete and send the email form below. A representative from the research center will then follow up with you.