Research is a team sport.
That’s one of many insights shared by Daniel I. Simon, M.D., president of academic and external affairs and chief scientific officer at University Hospitals Health System of Cleveland, in the first VITALS program of the 2023-2024 season on Sept. 14 in Watanakunakorn Auditorium and via Zoom.
Dr. Simon, who is also the Ernie and Patti Novak Distinguished Chair Healthcare Leadership at UH, discussed “Harnessing Research to Address Unmet Needs” with the audience of students, faculty, staff and others.
“Research is a team game and you need great partners to succeed,” he said, noting the affiliation agreement with NEOMED as an example. He also shared examples of UH research teams addressing a myriad of topics from cancer to MRI research.
Dr. Simon oversees research activities at UH, which has a growing research portfolio of more than $200 million dollars in 2023 with 3,400+ active clinical studies.
“Research offers hope for patients with no options,” he said, adding that research also creates competitive advantage for academic health centers, improves health outcomes by implementing evidence-based programs, drives philanthropy and attracts leaders and innovators.
He stressed the importance of having a strong strategic plan for research to ensure that funding is directed to areas of expertise and strategic importance.
“Academic medical centers should be dedicated to accelerating discovery, innovation and translation of scientific breakthroughs to address unmet clinical needs that will enhance the lives or our patients, our community and the world,” he noted.
Dr. Simon’s remarks were followed by an audiences Q&A moderated by Monica Robins, senior health correspondent for WKYC-TV3 in Cleveland.
Watch VITALS with Daniel I. Simon, M.D.
Coming Up
Next month’s VITALS speaker is Kendalle Cobb, M.D., associate chief of staff at the Cleveland Clinic, who will discuss health equity at noon on Thursday, Oct. 5, via Zoom. Secure your seat.