Research
Overview
The Research Department at GI Associates has ongoing research trials at our Poughkeepsie
location. During the past few years our research department has conducted clinical trials in
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hepatitis C, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, chronic
pancreatitis, and gastroparesis.
Dr. Peter Varunok serves as the Medical Director for the Research Department. He has an
expertise in liver disease, with extensive research experience with Hepatitis C. Dr. Varunok is an
American Gastroenterological Association Fellow and a member of the American Association for
the Study of Liver Diseases.
The Research Department consists of a Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigators and a full-time
clinical research coordinator.
Pharmaceutical research studies the effects of medications on certain symptoms or diseases.
The research might involve medications that are already on the market, or those that are still in
their study phase prior to release. GI Associates participates in research trials with a number of
pharmaceutical companies testing medications in all stages of development, including Phase II
- Phase IV. These studies include treatments for hepatitis C, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis,
gastroparesis, chronic pancreatitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
GI Associates' clinical research program offers the opportunity for patients to receive the newest
treatments in gastroenterology free of charge. In order to insure that the research patient's rights
and safety are protected, all of the research protocols undergo review and approval from an
Institutional Review Board. Each study is also approved by the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA). All patients interested in participating in a clinical trial are required to sign an informed
consent form, which details the nature of the study, the risks involved, and what may happen to a
patient in the study. During the course of the study, Dr. Varunok and his staff are always available
to answer any questions. Your privacy is protected, and your medical records are confidential.
The Research Department offers flexible scheduling and individualized attention to all our
research participants. All study related procedures including lab work, physical exams, EKGs,
and imaging studies are conducted at no cost, with most procedures done at our own offices.
Most studies also offer research patients a small per visit stipend. Health insurance is not
needed.
If you are interested in participating in a research study, please contact:
Alyson Cahill, MS - Clinical Research Coordinator
Phone: 845-471-9410 Ext 41
Email: acahill@premiermedicalhv.com
Current Studies >>>