As a kidney patient at Unity Health Toronto, you may be asked to join a research study. Many of our doctors and staff do research to test new drugs, devices and treatments. Thank you everyone who, over the years, has given their time and commitment to participate in our studies. This allows us to continue to improve treatments and care. We invite all patients to consider being part of this important work. If you are interested in participating in research please let your healthcare team know in clinic and the research team will contact you directly.
At St. Michael’s Hospital we undertake research on a variety of topics, such as:
- Testing safety of new drugs
- Comparing older medications to newer medications
- Testing new ways of using existing drugs
- Finding ways to improve dialysis
- Reviewing patient charts and records
- Studying genetics factors and drugs
There are many different reasons why you may be asked to participate in research including but not limited to:
- You are on the wait list to receive a kidney transplant
- You received a kidney transplant
- You had a complication related to the transplant such as rejection or infection
- A drug is being developed for an illness you have. For example, if you have chronic kidney disease, diabetes, anemia, a specific type of kidney disease such as polycystic kidney disease.
- You have a strong family history of a certain type of disease
- You have donated a kidney for transplantation
- You need dialysis
You do not have to participate in research. If you decide not to participate in research, you will continue to receive the highest quality of care.
If you are interested in participating in research or have questions about the research process, the Kidney research team can be reached at [email protected].
Below are links for all research being conducted at Unity Health Toronto: