Annual Report 2005
Grand Things Are Happening in Health Care

Advantages for Research Participants Medications or procedures not otherwise available (Parents of pediatric patients often receive incentives, such as free diapers or savings bonds.) Cost savings since medications are often provided free-of-charge to the patient Additional testing and monitoring Feeling of contributing to the welfare of others Prestige of participating in a study
	Annual Report 2005
	Letter from the Chairmen
	Expansion and Renovation
	Cardiology
	Surgery
	Cancer
	Women’s Health
	Research
	Choosing the Right Doctor
	Working at Grand View Hospital
	Awards
	Financial Summary
	Expanding The Vision Campaign
	Development
	Annual Giving
	Mission

Research

Grand View Hospital’s Commitment to Research & Benefits to Patients

Grand View Hospital is often described as a high-quality community hospital known for its friendly, caring staff, but you might be surprised that it also has a long tradition of supporting research. Established in 1974, Grand View Hospital’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) has reviewed and monitored hundreds of studies, from cutting-edge cancer medication to the chicken-pox vaccine. Regulated by the FDA, the purpose of an IRB is to ensure both in advance and by periodic review that appropriate steps are taken to protect the rights and welfare of individuals participating as subjects in research. In accordance with FDA regulations, an IRB has the authority to approve, require modifications or disapprove research.

Grand View’s IRB consists of physicians, nurses and other medical personnel, as well as members of the public. One of its most important roles is to ensure that potential participants of research studies clearly understand the likely risks and benefits. IRB Chairman Dr. Erik F. Lamberth reviews every study and protocol in meticulous detail to determine whether it is appropriate for patients. “Two to three community members sit on the board,” Lamberth said. “They review the consent form as if they were the patient and make sure it’s easy to understand.”

The majority of the studies monitored by Grand View’s IRB are related to cardiology, oncology and pediatrics, although other specialty areas are represented. Most are Stage III studies, meaning that earlier studies have determined the most suitable strength of the medication and the drug is now being compared to a placebo, which is a tablet or injection containing no medication that is given to some subjects. Usually, a patient does not know whether he/she is getting the medication or placebo. Often, studies are double-blind – neither the doctor nor the patient knows.

Patti Parsons, RN, Oncology Research Coordinator, helps identify potential studies and patients with cancer who might benefit from them. She sits down with potential study participants and carefully reviews the goal of the study, possible benefits and side effects. She encourages them to ask questions and makes sure they feel no pressure to participate. Before patients sign the consent form, she has them go home and think it over. “Many patients feel secure being in a study because they’re monitored very closely,” Parsons said.

As an added benefit, Grand View’s commitment to research spurs physicians and other health-care professionals to stay abreast of cutting-edge medications and procedures. It also helps to attract forward-thinking individuals to work at Grand View.