Outcomes research is a broad area of research that can be applied to virtually any specialty area of medicine, including cardiology to geriatrics. It examines real-world links between clinical observations and outcomes to determine what works and doesn't.
Outcomes research is defined by its methods, using statistical and epidemiology sciences to answer clinical questions, address public health issues or establish practice policies. The field examines a broad range of issues related to quality of care, patient safety, cost-effectiveness, disparities, quality of life and patient satisfaction. It uses information from a range of data sources, including registries, claims data, patient portals, and even biosensors.
Outcomes research enables investigators to challenge assumptions and established practices, consider novel approaches, adopt best practices and coordinate care. The ultimate goal of outcomes research is to provide health care that is high quality, cost-effective and patient-centered, which aligns perfectly with Sentara's mission.
Sentara Outcomes Research Center
The front-line clinicians at Sentara Health have unique perspectives and expertise. Our clinicians are particularly well-suited to ask the meaningful questions that lead to impactful research. The staff at the Sentara Outcomes Research Center ("SOuRCe") is here to help Sentara’s clinician-researchers every step of the way.
As a major integrated healthcare network, Sentara has access to a broad and diverse patient population. By thoughtfully studying our patient population, front-line clinicians have first-hand knowledge of gaps, barriers and challenges that affect daily patient care. By offering a wide range of support services, we encourage investigator-initiated research that will shape the future of patient care. Peer-reviewed publications and presentations at regional and national levels, will impact patients in our communities and beyond.
Services Provided:
- Facilitates IRB submission and ongoing support
- Manages project development, study design, cohort definition, and data collection
- Facilitates data requests in collaboration with Sentara Research Analytics, ensuring timely data curation and analytic support
- Collaborates with Research Infrastructure Services Enterprise (RISE) and Medical Student Research Office (MSR), directing students and fellows to EVMS Research Support Services
- Assists with manuscript preparation and submission, such as preparing data tables, figures and formatting
- Assists with grant writing and funding requests