Institute leads the way in patient-centred research

The Libin Cardiovascular Institute stands as a beacon for patient-centered research, a dynamic field where the voice of patients plays a pivotal role in steering the course of investigations and breakthroughs. 

By finding innovative ways to link data with patient voices and preferences, our researchers are helping solve challenges that really matter to patients and their families. This kind of research is a win for everyone: patients have better experiences, clinicians can provide the best care possible, and researchers have the satisfaction of knowing their work is filling a gap and making a difference. 

Now let’s delve into the remarkable contributions of those driving patient-centred cardiovascular research forward. 

Dr. Maria Santana: pioneering patient-centred research 

Dr. Maria Santana, PhD, stands as a prime example of the visionary researchers shaping the landscape of patient-centred inquiry. She pioneered the use of patient reported outcomes and experience measures in heart and lung transplant patients, work that fostered improved communication and outcomes for this unique patient group. 

Santana has dedicated 20 years to improving patient care and experiences through research that is relevant to the patients, caregivers and families impacted by cardiovascular disease and has become a leader in her field. 

She is the Patient Engagement Lead for Alberta Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research SUPPORT Unit (AbSPORU) and directs the Cumming School of Medicine’s Person-centred Care Research Team. Her expertise is widely recognized internationally, nationally and locally, where she lends her skills as a collaborator on several Libin based research projects aimed at incorporating the patient voice into research. 

Visionaries Leading the Way

Building upon Dr. Santana's legacy, other trailblazers like Dr. Matthew James, MD, PhD, and Dr. Stephen Wilton, MD, are pushing the boundaries of patient engagement and shared decision-making. Using data from the Calgary-based APPROACH registry, one of the largest, longest running and most comprehensive cardiovascular databases in the world, the team developed a web-based computer program designed for shared decision-making in chronic kidney and cardiovascular care. 

Based on data from thousands of previous patients, this innovative tool provides personalized benefit-risk information, empowering patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to make informed decisions about heart health-related tests and procedures. The project, identified as a top research priority by CKD patients nationwide, marks a significant stride in patient engagement, shared decision-making, and precision medicine. Read more about their ground-breaking project here.

Integrating patient preferences into clinical care

Biostatistician and researcher Dr. Tolu Sajobe, PhD, is tackling shared decision making in complex coronary artery disease (CAD). Working with collaborators, including Wilton and James, he is developing a shared physician-patient decision-making tool for patients and their doctors. The tool links patient preference data with clinical best practices to highlight the risks and benefits associated with the different treatment options. It promises to be a transformative leap in patient-centered care. 

Looking forward

The Libin Cardiovascular Institute’s goal is to improve outcomes for all cardiovascular patients, so encouraging patient-centred care just makes sense. Fortunately, patients are being included more frequently throughout the research process, and shared decision making between patients and their care team is common. Moving forward, our members will find more and better ways to ensure patients are at the centre. 

Read more about the Libin Cardiovascular Institute's Top 20 Achievements of the last 20 years here.