History

Medical research has a long and rich history at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children's Hospital (SHMC) since research began here in 2000. Prior to that time research was conducted through the Heart Institute of Spokane beginning in 1991. Our researchers have been involved with numerous ground breaking trials, such as Robotic Heart Surgery and novel treatments for diabetic kidney disease. In 2004, the research department of The Heart Institute of Spokane became part of research at SHMC and Providence Medical Research Center (PMRC) was created. This combination of services created a broader range of study in the field of medical research and a depth of expertise to the research department.

Clinical research is an important part of our services at SHMC.  Conducting research studies provides valuable insight to physicians and staff at SHMC. Individuals who participate in research may gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available to the general public. Clinical research trials also help to improve and advance medical care. Most of the advanced medical technologies in use today would not have been available without the knowledge gained through medical research.

At PMRC, our specialists provide high-quality services with attention to detail in research along with a personal touch in caring for the participants in our studies.  Our investigators continue to be selected, as part of an elite few, to participate in the latest clinical trials. Original research as well as industry sponsored research and National Institutes of Health trials are all conducted at PMRC.

Providence Medical Research Center is dedicated to promoting and enhancing quality clinical research as part of the Mission of Providence Health & Services.

Facilities

Providence Medical Research Center has facilities at several locations allowing research in a wide range of medical fields. There are facilities for study with adults and children, as well as research at the cellular level.

• Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children's Hospital
• Providence Regional Cancer Center
• Providence Holy Family Hospital
• Providence Fifth & Browne Medical Center
• Providence Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine