Our Mission
For over two decades, the Research & Quality Improvement Program has enabled Emergency Physicians to advance patient care through investigational research, ranging from public health surveys to studies on the efficacy of medications and procedural interventions. Our interns also assist with conducting department quality improvement initiatives. We aim for our interns to develop basic research skills and increase their knowledge of medical concepts in preparation for the next steps in their medical careers.
We aim to both increase knowledge in Emergency Medicine for the betterment of patient care in Emergency Medicine and to prepare our interns for the next step in their medical careers. The program is intended to introduce participants interested in healthcare to the fast-paced environment of a Trauma Level One Emergency Department and educate our interns on whether or not Emergency Medicine is a viable career pathway in their futures.
Our Program
The RQI in the Emergency Department (ED) at Hennepin County Medical Center hosts medical students, undergraduates, graduate students, and post-graduate students interested in medical careers to participate in data collection for academic research projects. As RQIs, students are afforded the opportunity to learn basic methodologies in clinical research, interact with patients, and observe the practice of emergency medicine. RQIs participate daily in the innovation of medical practice. The RQI Program runs year-round with students generally working 8-12 hours a week during the academic year. During all terms, RQIs are also expected to work one to two overnight shifts every month. In addition to time spent in the ED, students are invited to attend lectures on selected topics in Emergency Medicine and research methodology.