Yes, that’s right – we do clinical research at The Corvallis Clinic. We’re going to blog about all sorts of topics, such as new clinical studies, research results, and important medical developments. But first, a bit more about us.
The Clinical Research Center was the brainchild of a few Corvallis Clinic physicians 15 years ago. These doctors wanted to participate in bringing new treatments to their patients. Although most people associate this type of important medical research with large academic institutions or hospitals, the truth is the bulk of medical research is conducted at clinics just like ours. In this way, potential new treatments are tested using community volunteers who are carefully screened and closely monitored by our physicians.
The Corvallis Clinic has participated in more than 80 clinical research studies. Recent studies have investigated potential new treatments for diabetes, grass pollen allergies, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, atrial fibrillation, osteoporosis, and sleep apnea. Overall, about 1000 of your friends, family members and neighbors have been volunteers. And in the last year, 20 Corvallis Clinic physicians were responsible for patient care associated with several studies.
Upcoming topics for this blog include a discussion of some recent polls concerning patient willingness to participate in trials, public perceptions of research, and ways for volunteers (or the public) to find clinical trials online. We’ll also be sharing information about some exciting new research studies that will be starting soon at The Corvallis Clinic. And last but not least, look for the occasional guest blog from one of our own Corvallis Clinic physicians who have chosen to make research a part of their medical practice.
– Julie Carrico is Associate Coordinator of the Corvallis Clinic’s Critical Research Center