In our connected world, the latest information about your recent medical diagnosis is as close as a Google search. Sprinkled throughout those search results you’ll typically find information about research studies involving leading-edge treatments, new medical devices and groundbreaking therapies.
“Any advancements we’ve made in medicine are due to research,” said Yavapai Regional Medical Center Clinical Research Consultant Lynn Bessette.
This is one reason YRMC has joined other hospitals and providers nationwide as a research study site. In fact, YRMC is the first hospital in Northern Arizona to take this important step.
Below are answers to some of the questions you may have about YRMC’s current research studies.
How will YRMC’s involvement in research studies benefit our community?
In addition to contributing to the overall advancement of medical science, YRMC had an even more important reason to get involved in research.
“The decision was inspired by the people of our community,” Bessette said. “YRMC physicians and medical staff are dedicated to providing the best care available to our patients. By engaging in research studies, we are inviting the newest technology to our community so that our patients can receive leading-edge therapies while they remain within the comfort and care of their families.”
What kinds of research studies will be available through YRMC?
YRMC will participate in research studies across all therapeutic areas, starting out with several interventional cardiology studies related to new heart therapies.
Before they become widely available, new medical devices, therapies and medications – as well as new ways of using existing treatments – are the focus of extensive clinical research studies. These research studies include hospitals, providers and patient volunteers from throughout the country.
“Clinical research studies compare the current standard of care with the newly developed therapy,” said Bessette. “They also answer specific questions about the new approach, such as the optimal dosage for a new medication.”
How are the research studies monitored?
YRMC has formed a multidisciplinary Research Committee to oversee all research activity. The committee meets monthly to review the feasibility and appropriateness of each study, as proposed by individual physicians. This ensures the studies meet the needs of our patients in every way.
What specific research studies are available through YRMC?
Currently, YRMC is participating in two important studies under the direction of Interventional Cardiologists Mansour Assar, M.D., FACC and Robert Candipan, Ph.D., M.D., both of the James Family Heart Center. They are:
A device study that involves a carotid artery stent – a small mesh tube – that’s designed to treat cerebrovascular disease by restoring blood flow to the head and neck. Cerebrovascular disease affects the blood vessels and arteries that supply the brain.
What kinds of volunteers are needed for these two research studies?
The studies are enrolling volunteers who meet specific age, health and other requirements. Whether referred by a cardiologist, or a current YRMC PhysicianCare Cardiology patient, all potential study volunteers are clinically evaluated to ensure they meet the study criteria before joining. Research participation is always voluntary.
If you, or a family member, are interested in either of the research studies, the best place to start is with your primary care physician or cardiologist. Information about the studies is also available by contacting Lynn Bessette, YRMC Clinical Research Consultant, at lbessette@yrmc.org. QCBN
By Bridget O’Gara
Bridget O’Gara is a writer, communications strategist and project leader who specializes in healthcare. She works with mission-driven healthcare organizations, including hospitals, other healthcare providers and advocacy organizations.
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