Participate in Research

In answering God’s call to bring health, healing, and hope to all, we connect research to the patients in our community—so every breakthrough begins with local lives and real needs.

About Research

In general, research advances medical care, including treatments, supportive care, and even the way that medical treatment is explained to patients. Any time a new medicine, medical device, clinical technique or care delivery model is thought of, research helps clinical team members understand whether those new methods will be more beneficial or less risky to patients. Within Ascension Wisconsin, our research professionals work together with doctors, nurses, advanced practice providers, residents, and medical students on projects supported through government programs, pharmaceutical drug and device companies, as well as creating independent research ideas. This research is possible because of volunteer patients willing to share their important time, information and biological samples. While being a volunteer for a study may or may not help the individual volunteer, the contributions of these volunteers can impact numerous patients in the future.

How do you know if there is a research project and if you want to become a research volunteer?

You may see brochures, flyers, or may get information in the mail about research available to you as an Ascension patient. Your clinical care team may also bring up research that could be available to you during a regular office visit. Our dedicated research professionals work closely with the clinical care team to identify which research projects you may be a good candidate for. Our research professionals contact you by calling or seeing you at one of your visits. They will explain the research process, review the details you need and answer all of your questions so you can make your choice. No matter what clinical care you need, volunteering for a research project is always a separate choice.

Ascension Wisconsin Research Institute is part of a large research community. This network of researchers extends throughout many states and involves hundreds of professionals who share the common Ascension Health Mission. To learn more about this larger network, what questions to ask when considering participation and to explore more information about clinical trials please visit the Ascension Clinical Research Institute webpage.