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  1. Home
  2. Medical Services
  3. Sentara Health Research Center
  4. Areas of Research
  5. Neuroscience Research

Neuroscience Research

At Sentara Healthcare, we are committed to improving the lives of patients with neurological disorders.

Giving patients access to cutting-edge trials that seek to improve neurological symptoms and conditions is an essential part of our mission. We know this is vital, not just for Sentara patients but for patients everywhere with neurological disorders.

Improving neurological patient care

While researchers search for a cure for many neurological conditions, medication provided through clinical trials has successfully slowed the progression of some diseases and improved symptoms.

Our clinical trials seek to make a difference in many areas, including:

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Dementia
  • Epilepsy
  • Headache/Migraine
  • Movement disorders (Parkinson's, essential tremor, Huntington's, etc.)
  • Mild cognitive impairment
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Neuromuscular (ALS)
  • Stroke treatment

Patients and doctors at Sentara have participated in more than 300 neurological clinical trials and research studies since 2009.

Often patients who participate in neurology clinical trials are in search of the most innovative therapies available to them. Some want to slow the progression of their disease. Some are looking for symptomatic therapy when other approved medications have not been a good fit. Others are searching for a cure and wish to pioneer treatments that will make a difference for future patients. Without patient participation in clinical trials, future therapeutic medications will not be available.

Resources for neuroscience research

To conduct our trials and evaluate results, we rely on partnerships throughout Sentara Healthcare, including:

  • Experts in other specialties
  • Infusion clinics
  • Interventional radiology
  • MRIs and other imaging equipment
  • Nuclear medicine scans
  • Research pharmacy

We understand that patients and families have many questions before deciding whether to enroll in a clinical trial. We will thoroughly review the details of the study and what will be required of patients. If at any time a patient would like to withdraw from a study, they are welcome to leave.

For more information on these clinical trials and studies, please contact our Clinical Research Coordinator at 833-866-7766.

Meet the principal investigators:

  • Dana Adkins, M.D.
  • Michelle Betz, D.O.
  • Daniel Cohen, M.D., M.M.Sc.
  • Andrew Galbreath, D.O.
  • Karen Thomas, D.O.
  • Wylie Zhu, M.D., PhD, F.A.A.N.S.

Meet patients who have participated in neurological clinical trials:

  • Rebeca Giacoman
  • Amy Morgan
  • James Shull

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