As a research center embedded within Kaiser Permanente’s large and dynamic health care system, our investigators have a unique opportunity to apply scientific expertise to real-world clinical problems, translate findings into practice, and share what we learn with the broader community.
Dr. Matthew Mefford is a cardiovascular disease epidemiologist and research scientist in the Department of Research & Evaluation. His research interests focus on cardiovascular health including the study of risk factors, treatments, and cardiovascular outcomes, with an emphasis on the heart failure. He also maintains a broad focus on the prevention and treatment of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes for reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
Dr. Mefford has collaborated on cardiovascular ...
Over the years, clinical trials have led to amazing advances in treatment—even cures—for devastating illnesses. William Towner, MD, FACP, FIDSA, regional physician director for clinical trials, describes how trials at Kaiser Permanente contribute to the development of more effective and safer treatments for diseases such as HIV, hepatitis C, cancer, and more. (2:15)
A large study conducted within Kaiser Permanente Southern California found that people with type 2 diabetes who primarily received diabetes self-management education and support were more likely to achieve healthy blood sugar levels than those whose care focused mainly on physician visits. “For people living with type 2 diabetes, this study shows that actively participating ...
This week, Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2026), we honor all the nurses who work within the Department of Research & Evaluation, who are a vital part of our research. Here we highlight Beatriz Alviso, RN, PHN, BSN who works in the Division of Health Services Research & Implementation Science. What is your background? I grew up ...
This week, Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2026), we honor all the nurses who work within the Department of Research & Evaluation, who are a vital part of our research. Here we highlight Christina Flores, LVN, who works in vaccine and infectious disease clinical trials. What is your background? I grew up in Highland Park, California, and ...
This week, Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2026), we honor all the nurses who work within the Department of Research & Evaluation, who are a vital part of our research. Here we highlight Sarah Ruiz, BSN, RN, PHN, who works in bone marrow transplant and pediatric clinical trials. What is your background? I grew up in Texas, ...
Restaurants in the United States are known for generous portions, often serving far more food than most adults need in a single meal. Those oversized portions have long been linked to overeating and, over time, to higher rates of obesity and chronic disease. A new study conducted in real restaurants suggests there may be a ...
The latest IMPACT newsletter highlights Kaiser Permanente research and its real-world relevance. This issue explores why less frequent MS treatment may be just as effective, how staying active during pregnancy supports a healthier postpartum weight, and what new studies reveal about wildfire smoke risks. You’ll also find research on heart disease risk prediction across Asian ethnicities and a Q&A with Dr. Hui Zhou, reflecting on science, service, and being mom to this year’s Rose Queen.
The Division of Clinical Trials Research advances medical innovation by supporting evaluation of new drugs, therapies, and devices to prevent and treat health problems. Our physician investigators work with cooperative groups and industry sponsors to conduct clinical trials for investigational drugs, biologics, and devices. In addition, the division develops pragmatic trials that help answer questions about care delivery.
The region has clinical trials programs in oncology (adult, gynecologic, pediatric, and surgical/radiation oncology), urology, gynecology, neurology, dermatology, metabolic diseases, nephrology, ophthalmology, infectious disease, cardiology, hepatology, vascular surgery, and rheumatology. Clinical trials staff support trials at medical centers and medical office buildings throughout the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Region.