Hendrick Center for Research expands participation in clinical trials

Hendrick Health has been participating in research for decades, although the scale has been small. In late 2020, Hendrick embarked on a transformative journey to establish a full-blown research program. Since then, the research team has enrolled more than 300 patients into clinical trials.

“We now currently have 30 active clinical trials, with approximately four to eight new trials being onboarded annually,” said Hendrick Health President and CEO Brad Holland. “These trials are carefully selected to address the most pressing health concerns faced by our community.”

For patients, the benefits of participating in clinical research can be profound. By enrolling, patients gain access to new therapies and treatments before they are widely available. Participants are also contributing to the advancement of medicine, helping to shape the future of healthcare.

For the Hendrick medical staff and physicians, the research program represents an opportunity to be at the forefront of medical innovation while offering patients advanced care options. Additionally, our involvement in research fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement, ensuring that our staff is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to deliver the best possible care.

The studies have spanned a variety of crucial areas, including infectious diseases like COVID-19, cardiac conditions such as congestive heart failure and complications arising from surgeries, as well as diagnoses of breast, pancreatic and colon cancers.

Hendrick Center for Research provides the development and oversight to safely and effectively conduct research to offer phase 3 clinical trials and phase 4 observation trials. These trials allow us to gain early access to new technology, medications and devices for improving patient outcomes.

“The work we are doing here is garnering attention locally, nationally and globally,” said Holland. “In fact, we have been recognized as the highest enrolling site in a major international clinical trial - a testament to the dedication of our research team, the commitment of our patients and the support of our physicians and medical staff.”

Hendrick Center for Research has also received accolades for data quality and protocol compliance, reinforcing the healthcare system’s reputation as a leading site for clinical research.

Today, Hendrick Center for Research has a home in a newly renovated office building on Hickory Street.

“Through our efforts, we will be building a future where our community has access to the best possible care, where our medical professionals are leaders in their fields and where our organization is recognized as a hub of innovation and excellence in healthcare,” said Holland.