Operations
The operational plan for the initial studies noted above are available on request. In summary, three modes of information gathering will be invoked.
The first will gather physical statistics, both descriptive and numerical, to confirm and generate a base for rural population characterization medically. The data will be primarily demographic but will also capture data for indices on physical and mental status as much as possible.
The second will gather data for dietary analysis, both numeric and qualitative. Access and frequency of consumption of fast-foods, high energy foods, fresh fruit and vegetables, tubers, local produce and so on will be evaluated statistically.
The third will gather data for risk factors for emergent or genetically-driven medical conditions. Again the data will be both numerical and qualitative, gleaned through oral conversation and enquiry.
For the initial Huron-Perth catchment area, approximately 300 interviews are planned to produce meaningful data and to fine-tune the initial parameters, questionnaires and interviews.
Staff needs
Initial studies will involve nurses, nurse-practitioner’s physicians, dietitians and supplementary investigators. The role of the medical professionals will be to conduct any intrusive testing or supplement medical testing normally conducted for presented conditions, in addition to participating in interviews and questionnaires tailored to the studies at hand. Non-medical investigators will conduct interviews when sufficient intrusive testing is available on the subject clients. An x-ray technician will be similarly engaged in the studies where appropriate for ultrasound investigation and operating carotid-Doppler equipment to gather data on cardiovascular conditions.
The Head of Research, Claudio Munoz PhD MD, will organize and direct all aspects of research, training and over viewing the efforts of investigators, both onsite and offsite.
A secretary will assist the Head of Research and will serve as the initial compiler of data.
A program manager will be engaged as the volume of activity increases, as staffing for individual studies evolve and as new programs become identified, funded and undertaken. The role will be expanded or assisted as communications demands and needs develop.
Similarly, an administrative manager role will evolve as volume of data and office management issues evolve.
Regular meetings with professional staff and research participants will be planned to keep the community at large informed on progress and broad research results as they are generated.
Subsidiary studies
Gateway will agree to participate or host subsidiary studies if the aims and goals of such studies are compatible with Gateway’s mission, aims and goals and preferred research involving community participation.
Subsidiary study liability issues
Gateway will arrange for appropriate insurance coverage for corporate, tenant and director liability concerns. Subsidiary studies undertaken by Gateway associate groups and individual researchers will require individual funding and sponsorship, with due regard to accountability and liability provisions in contract form acceptable to the stakeholder parties.
