The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Translational Research Institute https://tri.uams.edu was awarded $24.2 million to accelerate research to address the state’s biggest health challenges.
The Translational Research Institute helps researchers turn their ideas and findings into new medical treatments and other health interventions. The Institute focuses on rural Arkansas populations in areas where health and healthcare disparities persist.
The funding a “Clinical and Translational Science Award” (CTSA) came from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) https://ncats.nih.gov part of NIH. The funding will support novel research addressing significant health issues in the state such as the use of opioids, pain management, diabetes, obesity, mental health, and rare diseases. The funding will also expand opportunities for UAMS researchers to participate in multisite clinical trials.
A new digital health spine clinic just initiated at UAMS is going to help spine patients statewide with spinal disorders, spinal cord tumors, and help patients who have recently undergone surgery. Digital health can deliver healthcare via smart phones, interactive live video, wearable devices, and personal computers. Currently, the clinics are being held at UAMS statewide regional campuses through a live video and data connection.