GULFPORT, MS – Congratulations to Dr. Sean Kerby and the exceptional team at Gulfport Memorial for screening the very first patient in a Phase 2 clinical trial for gout flares, on the very same day the site was activated. As the first site activated across the entire study, this milestone represents an important step forward in research for a painful and often debilitating condition.

The Burden of Gout

Gout is a chronic, inflammatory form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Characterized by sudden flares of severe pain, swelling, and tenderness, most often in the big toe, feet, or knees, the condition can be unpredictable and debilitating. Even with available therapies, many patients experience recurring flares or find current treatments inadequate, highlighting the need for new therapeutic options. Clinical trials like this Phase 2 study are essential to advancing more effective care for patients living with this painful disease.

Excellence in Gulfport

Dr. Kerby and his team at Gulfport Memorial have a long track record of operational excellence. As a trusted partner with DelRicht Research, Dr. Sean Kerby has led more than 35 clinical trials across therapeutic areas, consistently delivering strong performance. His leadership, combined with the dedication of the Gulfport Memorial research staff, makes the site a vital contributor to advancing clinical research in Mississippi and beyond.

The achievement of first site activation and first patient screened within the same day reflects the team’s preparation, responsiveness, and deep commitment to patients. This accomplishment required not only efficient study start-up processes but also the ability to engage and support participants quickly, ensuring they felt confident in contributing to the trial.

Voices from the Team

“First patient screened and first site activated are two of the most important milestones in any trial,” said Tyler Hastings, Managing Partner at DelRicht Research. “Dr. Kerby and his team exemplify what it means to move medicine forward. Their speed, quality, and dedication set the tone for success across the entire study.”

“First patient screened and first site activated are two of the most important milestones in any trial. Dr. Kerby and his team exemplify what it means to move medicine forward. Their speed, quality, and dedication set the tone for success across the entire study.”

— Tyler Hastings, Managing Partner at DelRicht Research

Moving Medicine Forward

By participating in this Phase 2 trial, patients have the opportunity to contribute to research that could shape the future standard of care for gout. For sponsors and CROs, rapid activation and immediate patient screening demonstrate the value of working with experienced, high-performing sites that prioritize both operational timelines and patient care.

DelRicht Research is proud to partner with investigators like Dr. Kerby who bring expertise, innovation, and a shared mission of improving patient care through clinical research. Together, we are expanding access to trials that bring tomorrow’s therapies to patients today.

Moving Medicine Forward

DelRicht Research is a nationwide, multi-specialty site network dedicated to increasing patient participation in clinical trials. By partnering with physicians across a wide range of therapeutic areas, DelRicht delivers high-quality research at scale while maintaining a community-centered approach to trial access.

Learn more about our current studies in gout research.