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Research

Clinical research

St John of God Health Care is increasing its commitment to research across a wide range of medical, surgical and mental health fields with the aim of improving patient outcomes.

Our research efforts are particularly strong at our Subiaco hospital, which in 2006 facilitated the establishment of Subiaco Colorectal, which comprises four leading surgeons in the field of colorectal cancer. Their aim is to advance the management of colorectal cancer through excellence in clinical service and research. In February 2009, Subiaco launched the Jean and John Tonkinson Research Foundation, which will fund colorectal cancer research.

In August 2008, St John of God Pathology opened a new cancer research laboratory within Subiaco's Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre. Research is now conducted as part of routine clinical practice - the first time a private practice in WA has integrated research into its services. Study of pathological samples is helping researchers increase their understanding of cancer and can help doctors provide optimal treatment for patients. Some of the research projects underway include identifying predictors of response to chemotherapy for women with advanced breast cancer and prognostic factors for early stage bowel cancer.

Nursing research

To ensure our nursing practice is evidence led, we conduct and participate in a wide range of nursing research. The results of research enable us to better recruit, train and equip our nurses and midwives, with the ultimate goal of improving patient care.

Find out more about the St John of God Health Care Ethics Committee

Perinatal Mental Health

St John of God Health Care has a strong commitment towards advancing research in the field of Perinatal Mental Health.

This research provides us with important information about the nature of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other emotional health issues experienced during pregnancy and following birth.

Research efforts are particularly strong at St John of God Hospital Burwood. The Perinatal and Women’s Mental Health Unit was established in 2009 and is led by Professor Marie-Paule Austin, in partnership with St John of God Health Care and the University of New South Wales.

Research conducted by Professor Austin and her team will provide us with important information about factors that underpin the mental health of women and impact on the family environment in the early years of life. The research aims to inform the development of evidence-based interventions and to promote and improve mental health outcomes for women and their families.

Find out more about our Perinatal Mental Health research