Avera Research Institute
The world of research is dynamic, an ever-changing environment where robust therapies are discovered and tested, and one day put into practice.
That’s where Avera Research Institute comes in. We build upon Avera’s strong commitment to population health, particularly American Indian health, and the integration of clinical research studies within the health system.
To conduct our research, we have offices in Sioux Falls, Rapid City and Pine Ridge, SD, where our researchers engage in partnerships with American Indian communities, community-based organizations, and clinics/hospitals.
Experts in Clinical Trials
Avera Research Institute plays a vital role in national clinical trials, participating in several for COVD-19 treatments, pediatrics, community and faculty-initiated studies.
COVID-19 Clinical Trials
Avera Research Institute has participated in major studies of treatments, including monoclonal antibody infusions and a COVID pill regimen. We’re also taking part in a national study of long-term effects of COVID in the hopes of finding solutions to help people who continue to suffer from symptoms.
⇒ Find COVID-19 clinical trials
Experts in Community Research
Child Health Research
Avera is one of only 35 nationwide cohorts chosen to participate in Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes, (ECHO) – a national research program launched and supported by the National Institutes of Health. The goal of this study is to improve child and adolescent health by looking at how a broad range of environmental influences – including sleep, nutrition, allergens and social relationships – affect children both prenatally and after birth.
ECHO builds upon research completed during the Safe Passage study, a project that investigated the association between prenatal alcohol exposures, SIDS, and stillbirth. The ECHO study is also enrolling women who are currently pregnant and planning to deliver at any hospital within the Avera Health footprint, or Monument Health facility.
Population Health Research
Our team is dedicated to population health, an approach to health that aims to improve the health of an entire population. Avera Research Institute has focused particularly on the health of American Indian populations.
A few studies our team has conducted include:
Evaluation Services
Avera Research Institute offers evaluation services that are cooperative and culturally sensitive and responsive to the needs of collaborators. Examples of this work include:
- Developing a proposal for a federal or private grant program
- Planning and conducting an efficacy study designed to meet evidence-based standards
- Planning and conducting a cost effectiveness study of a program or policy
- Working with a health care or school leadership team to plan, roll out, and test new initiatives