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VA Health Systems Research

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At VETWISE-LHS, our research is driven by the goal of improving the health and well-being of Veterans through innovative and evidence-based approaches. We focus on translating research findings into actionable insights that enhance clinical care, inform health policy, and address the unique healthcare needs of Veterans. Our interdisciplinary research covers a broad spectrum of health conditions, from the prevention of early-stage diseases to the management of complex chronic and acute illnesses. The aims of the LHS infrastructure emphasize pragmatic trials, implementation, and health equity

By leveraging the strength of data science, Veteran engagement, and implementation research, VETWISE-LHS is helping to shape the future of healthcare for Veterans.

Our Research Focus Areas Support Embedded Research

VETWISELHS Lifecycle

The roadmap begins with a clinician, research scientist, Veteran, community partner, or operational leader framing a clinical question and ends in the “last mile” of health system implementation based on new knowledge generation. Last mile goals are ensuring application of study results, minimizing cost, increasing efficiency of healthcare teams, improving structure for care and improving Veterans’ outcomes. The VETWISE-LHS team including the Veteran Engagement Board will provide support and infrastructure to address all phases. We envision that VETWISE-LHS scientists and trainees will participate in an initial session, where core leaders will review the LHS project lifecycle

Biomedical Informatics and Data Science
We utilize advanced data analytics, machine learning, and health informatics to transform healthcare data into actionable insights. Our research is focused on improving clinical decision-making and care delivery through data-driven innovation.

Veteran-Centered Research
At the heart of all our projects is the Veteran community. We work closely with Veterans and caregivers to ensure that their experiences and needs guide our research priorities and the implementation of interventions that are practical, effective, and equitable.

Implementation Science
We are committed to ensuring that healthcare innovations are not only developed but also effectively integrated into clinical practice. Our research addresses the challenges of implementing new interventions, with a focus on sustainability and widespread adoption across the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Current Research Projects

Our team is actively involved in a wide range of research projects aimed at improving healthcare for Veterans. These projects are embedded within clinical settings, ensuring that research findings are rapidly translated into improved patient care.

  • MAS-EXPAND: The MAS-EXPAND study is designed to evaluate the impact of military-related exposures, such as toxic substances like burn pits, on the risk of developing lung cancer among veterans. It aims to identify and address health risks by conducting annual low-dose chest CT screenings for early lung cancer detection. Additionally, the study explores integrating blood-based biomarkers and radiomics to improve diagnostic accuracy. The study is conducted across seven VA Medical Centers, in collaboration with Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, with a focus on improving veteran health outcomes related to lung cancer risks from military service.

    Investigators:
    Jennifer Lewis, MD MPH & Dr. Lucy Spalluto, MD MPH
    Phillip.Fryman@va.gov (615) 875-7795

  • PREVENTABLE: PREVENTABLE clinical trial, is one of the largest clinical research studies in adults 75 years or older. The goal of the study is to learn if taking a statin could help older adults live well for longer by preventing dementia, disability, or heart disease. A statin is a medication commonly used to lower cholesterol.

    Investigator:
    Dr. Christianne Roumie, MD MPH
    Jennifer Wharton, BS, Research Coordinator
    jennifer.wharton@va.gov (615) 873- 6055

Join Our Research Efforts

We welcome collaborations with fellow researchers, healthcare providers, and Veterans interested in contributing to the advancement of healthcare for Veterans. To learn more about our research and how you can get involved, visit Contact Us.


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Any health information on this website is strictly for informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition.