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Research Institute Named After Dr. Kiran C. Patel

Through the generosity of Dr. Kiran C. Patel, the Research Institute long affiliated with Pepin Heart Hospital will be named the Dr. Kiran C. Patel Research Institute following a $3-million donation. The gift will take the institute to a new level by providing the latest options for drug therapies and medical devices for heart patients.

"I have been witness to an amazing evolution of UCH's heart program and share their vision to be become the cardiovascular leader in the Southeastern United States," stated Dr. Patel. "This donation will advance research in a specialty area that I am so personally committed to as a cardiologist and will enable the institute to introduce lifesaving breakthroughs that are only available in a limited number of specialty hospitals and academic facilities around the world."

"We are deeply appreciative of Dr. Patel’s generosity," stated Brigitte Shaw, chief executive officer for Pepin Heart Hospital & Research Institute. "With his help, the Research Institute will be able to promote and advance patient care through clinical and patient-focused research, in essence, putting Tampa on the research opportunities map.

"The Research Institute’s initiatives are centered on exploring and promoting leading edge therapy options for physicians and patients; furthering scientific knowledge in the prevention, treatment and management of cardiovascular disease; and educating Tampa Bay area physicians, clinicians and the community about the latest discoveries in cardiovascular medical research," added Shaw. "Working in concert with The National Institutes of Health, The Cleveland Clinic and Duke University, to name a few, also allows us to participate in clinical trials that keep us on the forefront of revolutionizing care."

Research has been conducted at University Community Hospital since 1993, with a formal department formed in 1995.