Manitoba’s newest research centre underway

WINNIPEG – A next generation research centre will be built at Seven Oaks Hospital in upcoming months, now that three quarters of the cost has been pledged by private donors. The $1.2 million centre will bring together three clinician scientists and their team of 10-12 research coordinators, biostatisticians and data specialists.

They will work in a modern space designed for productive collaboration that has led to world class research and innovation, such as the Kidney Failure Risk Equation, which has been adopted globally.

The new space will feature natural light, modern presentation aids, options for standing and sitting desks, and space for visiting researchers and students to plug in and work. CDIC research is centered primarily on sophisticated analysis of population health data, so this isn’t a traditional laboratory with test tubes and microscopes.

It is a unique research centre embedded in a community hospital, where it can test and implement innovative ideas quickly and collaborate directly with business on new healthcare technology. According to research director Dr. Paul Komenda (pictured), until recently members of the research team were scattered through the hospital, sometimes working from home on laptops and meeting weekly to discuss projects.

“Our research is a combination of device development, risk prediction with equations and the use of technology to really deliver care differently,” says Dr. Komenda. “That requires a team of physicians, and nurses and engineers and people who are good with computer programming and statistical analysis. Assembling that group of talent is what we’ve done here at CDIC.”

The Winnipeg Foundation was an anchor donor that came on board early in the quiet capital campaign with a $100,000 donation that helped leverage other corporate and community contributions.

“The new Chronic Disease Innovation Centre at Seven Oaks Hospital will find cost-effective, prevention-focused solutions to promote wellness and improve quality of care and quality of life. We are happy to support this important cause,” said Rick Lussier, The Winnipeg Foundation’s Senior Grants Associate.

The Foundation will continue to support CDIC to do its important work, but one of the strategies for sustaining the research includes collaborating with life sciences and technology companies and taking on contracts for clinical trials.