Summer Student Research Program

Transcription

Summer Student Research Program
An Investment in the Future of Medicine
2015
H AWA I ‘ I PAC I F I C H E A LT H
Summer Student
Research Program
S c i e n t i f i c P r e s e n tat i o n
Thursday, August 13, 2015 | 5:30 - 8:30 PM
Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki
SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM | 1
A Life-Changing Experience
Aloha!
Welcome to the Scientific Presentation and Reception honoring the 12 research scholars who were
competitively selected to participate in the 2015 Hawai‘i Pacific Health Summer Student Research
Program (SSRP).
Established in 1986, this unique program combines the experience of participating in a clinical
research project with a structured medical curriculum highlighted by the “life cycle of research”
meetings, “careers in medicine” talk-story sessions with physicians, and visits to Hawai‘i Pacific
Health’s four hospitals – Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children, Pali Momi Medical Center,
Straub Clinic & Hospital, and Wilcox Memorial Hospital on Kaua‘i. The research scholars learned
important components of research design and methodology, and were introduced to the role of
clinical research in the daily practice of medicine.
With the guidance of a physician mentor, each research scholar completed a clinical research project
over a very busy eight-week period.
The Scientific Presentation is the culmination of this summer’s program. Our research scholars will
discuss their projects and research findings, and will write an abstract. Several will be asked to assist
with the writing of an academic paper to be submitted for publication in a medical journal.
On behalf of Hawai‘i Pacific Health, we would like to recognize and thank the principal investigators
who gave of their personal time to mentor a student this summer: Melinda Ashton, MD; Janet
Burlingame, MD; Spencer Chang, MD; Mark Grief, MD; Lynn Iwamoto, MD; James Kakuda, MD; Christi
Keliipio, RN; Charles Kim, MD; Jessica Kosut, MD; Sheree Kuo, MD; Kyra Len, MD; Gregorio Maldini,
MD; James Musgrave, MD; Marti Taba, MD; William Tsushima, PhD; and Kara Wong Ramsey, MD.
A special thanks to Andrea Siu and Moara Palma, our research consultants, and the JABSOM Biostat
Core for their expertise and support.
Congratulations to the 2015 SSRP Research Scholars. You all were very engaged and hardworking,
and challenged us with your questions. We wish you every success in the future and hope your
participation in this program has convinced you to pursue a career in medicine.
Sincerely,
“I had no idea what to expect on the first day of SSRP. All I knew was that everyone kept
telling me that I was going to have an amazing eight weeks – weeks filled with opportunities so
incredible that one may even call them life-changing. I can truly say they were right.”
“This summer has challenged me in ways that I did not expect.”
“My experiences this summer have reminded me of where I come from and who I want to be.”
S. Kalani Brady, MD, MPH, MACP
Curtis B. Kamida, MD, FACR
Co-Director
Summer Student Research Program
Co-Director
Summer Student Research Program
On the Cover: Left: Dr. James Kakuda demonstrates Da Vinci robot surgery with Tiffany Lau and Taryn Miyake.
Top right: Dr. Sheree Kuo and Cassie Tarleton. Below right: Dr. Matthew Ruel at Kaua‘i Medical Clinic.
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SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM | 3
PROGRAM
PROGRAM (continued)
Welcome and
Introductions
Charlene Caoili
Amanda Wasko
Senior, Manhattanville College
Senior, Dominican University of California
Kenneth B. Robbins, MD
Executive Vice President and Chief Medical
Officer, Hawai’i Pacific Health
S. Kalani Brady, MD, MPH, MACP
Moderator and Co-Director, SSRP
Curtis B. Kamida, MD, FACR
Co-Director, SSRP
Project: Potential Attributes of Bariatric
Surgery on Sustained Weight Loss and
Medical Improvements
Project: Improved Growth Outcomes for
Preterm Infants in the NICU: A Quality
Improvement Project
Principal Investigators: Mark Grief, MD and Christi Keliipio, RN
Principal Investigator: Lynn Iwamoto, MD
PRESENTATIONS BY RESEARCH
SCHOLARS
Senior, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Geoffrey Kusaka
Principal Investigator: Gregorio Maldini, MD
Project: Major Oncologic Surgery at a
Community Hospital
Senior, University of Southern California
Project: Factors Underlying Relapse in Idiopathic
Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome (ICNS)
Elise Chong
Principal Investigator: James Musgrave, MD
Project: The Improvement of Complications
in Type 2 Diabetic Patients since Implementing
the Health Maintenance Program
Bolin Chang
Senior, Lehigh University
Project: Variables Contributing to Concussion
Incidence Among Hawai‘i High School Athletes
Principal Investigator: William Tsushima, PhD
Nicole Chong
Senior, University of Hawai‘ i at Mānoa
Senior, Carnegie Mellon University
Project: The Role of Blood Cultures Obtained
in Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Pediatric Patients (ROBOCAP)
Principal Investigators: Jessica Kosut, MD and Kyra Len, MD
Sophomore, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Principal Investigators: Melinda Ashton, MD and Marti Taba, MD
Taryn Miyake
Junior, Chapman University
Project: Reducing Postoperative Pneumonia:
Applying an Online Risk Assessment Tool to
Surgery Patients at Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Project: Clinical Impact of PCA3 Urine Testing
in Prostate Cancer Screening
Principal Investigator: James Kakuda, MD
Principal Investigator: Charles Kim, MD
Tiffany Lau
Cassie Tarleton
Presentation of Awards
and Certificates
S. Kalani Brady, MD, MPH, MACP
Curtis B. Kamida, MD, FACR
Kenneth B. Robbins, MD
Morgan Liu
Hollyann Loui
A Special Presentation by
the 2015 Research Scholars
Junior, Carnegie Mellon University
Senior, Yale University
Project: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
Reconstruction: Autograft versus Allograft
Project: The Effect of Maternal Blood Glucose
Control on Infant Body Composition
Principal Investigator: Spencer Chang, MD
Principal Investigator: Sheree Kuo, MD and Kara Wong Ramsey, MD
Nicole Nakamatsu
Junior, University of Washington
Project: Use of Code Crimson and Blood
Products in Obstetric Hemorrhage
Photo and Video Notice
Please note that you may be videotaped or photographed as part of your participation at this event.
These video and still images may be used for the benefit of Hawai‘i Pacific Health.
Principal Investigator: Janet Burlingame, MD
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Charlene and Principal Investigators Mark Grief, MD and
Christi Keliipio, RN | Pali Momi Medical Center
Charlene Caoili
Bolin Chang
Senior, Manhattanville College
Senior, Lehigh University
The Summer Student Research Program has given
me a vast array of exposure into medicine. These
past few weeks have been filled with shadowing
opportunities, observing surgeries, speaking with
physicians, tours, working on a research project,
and an unforgettable trip to Kalaupapa. I thank the
numerous health care professionals that came to
speak to us. Their honesty not only gave me a look
into what the future holds, but also the unwavering
lesson that it is truly a privilege to be able to care
for someone.
Prior to the past eight weeks, I thought I understood
what it might be like to be a doctor, or for that
matter, to work in a hospital. However, my heart
and mind have been opened in ways I could not
have ever imagined because of the incredible
conversations and exposure we had with physicians,
hospital administrators, and other health care
professionals. It is an understatement to say I have a
newfound appreciation for the deep-seated passion
and commitment in the people who have chosen to
do the extraordinary work of healing and caring for
the sick and those in need.
Observing a mitral valve replacement three summers
ago had ignited a spark for surgery. Through the
SSRP I have come to realize that that spark burns
even brighter today. My project this summer
reminded me that surgery is not only to fix a
specific problem, but that it impacts an individual’s
overall life. Surgery continues to hold my interest
but I remain open to exploring other avenues of
medicine. No two paths are ever the same when
it comes to medicine, but what I’ve come to learn
most importantly is the humanity of medicine. This
summer has challenged me in ways that I did not
expect. However, I am grateful; because through
SSRP I know with even greater clarity, that I want to
be a physician.
Thank you to Dr. Grief, Christi Keliipio, the entire
Pali Momi Bariatric Program, Dr. Kamida, Dr. Brady,
Andrea Siu, my fellow research scholars, and
everyone who made this summer a memorable one.
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Bolin and Principal Investigator William Tsushima, PhD
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Medical knowledge is accelerating at a fast and
furious pace, and I can only imagine what will be
possible to provide patients in the future. I am more
than excited about meeting this challenge, because I
know it will require the very best I have to give, while
demanding a lifetime of learning in order to evolve in
the practice of healing others.
After graduation, I want to hopefully return home
to attend JABSOM, with the understanding and
commitment of dedicating my life to serving the
many needs of the people of Hawai‘i in this place
that I love.
I am especially grateful to Dr. Tsushima for his
patience, guidance, and trust as he made my
experience very special and life-changing, and
to Dr. Brady and Dr. Kamida for their vision and
tireless support.
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Elise Chong
(Above) Elise and Principal Investigator Melinda Ashton, MD, Hawai‘i
Pacific Health (Below) Elise and Principal Investigator Marti Taba,
MD, Straub Clinic & Hospital, Emiline Buhler, and Bruce Huegel, MBA,
Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Sophomore
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
“…I am not worthy”. This was the first thought that
went through my mind every time I met a health
care professional. SSRP has offered many unique
opportunities and learning experiences that exposed
me to the clinical, surgical, and research sides of
medicine. This experience has opened my eyes and
mind to the various careers in medicine.
By listening to the stories of various professionals, I
have realized that being a doctor is not for the faint
of heart. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is
best described by our hike to Kalaupapa. The road to
becoming a doctor will be a long journey, and there
will be many hurdles (piles of mule poop) along the
way, but I know the journey is doable with the help of
others, and the destination is well worth the hardships.
I’d like to thank Dr. Ashton, Dr. Taba, Dr. Brady,
Dr. Kamida, Andrea, Bruce, and Emiline for their
unceasing support and commitment towards
this project and my future in medicine. I’ll never
forget the experiences I was given as well as
the connections I have made with phenomenal
physicians, administrators, various health
professionals, and my fellow SSRP classmates. I
have emerged from this program a different person,
with reshaped goals, and a stronger passion and
appreciation for medicine and life. Yes I still feel
unworthy, but not in a lacking sense. I am unworthy
because I now want to give back as much of what
has been given to me – yet I can never pay it back.
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Nicole Chong
Senior, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Nicole and Principal Investigator Charles Kim, MD
Pali Momi Medical Center
“Do what makes your heart sing.”
Those words troubled me. I’ve always wanted to
become a physician, but I wasn’t fully committed. I
wasn’t sure if my intention to enter medicine was a
stubborn clutch on a childhood dream or if I thought
it would make my heart sing.
It was time to decide: walk away from medicine or
charge forward with full force.
This program gave me a better understanding of
what medicine is. I was able to see it in practice
when I observed surgery for the first time or
shadowed the NICU near midnight. I heard stories
from physicians themselves, who shared their time
through Careers in Medicine. Finally, conducting
research taught me that medicine is an intellectual,
challenging field that seeks the advancement of
knowledge and improvement of care; boundaries are
constantly pushed to give those in need the very best.
Before I knew it, my heart was already singing.
Thank you to everyone who has given me this
opportunity and to everyone who has been a part of
this experience. Thank you, Dr. Brady and Dr. Kamida
for always supporting me. Thank you, Dr. Kim, for
being the best mentor I could ever ask for. Thank
you, Andrea, Moara, and Jun, for your constant help
and understanding. And thank you, fellow scholars,
for being the coolest squad I’ve ever met. You’ve all
made this one of the best experiences of my life.
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Geoff and Principal Investigator James Musgrave, MD
Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children
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Geoffrey Kusaka
Tiffany Lau
Senior, University of Southern California
Junior, Carnegie Mellon University
The Summer Student Research Program has been an
amazing journey, complete with high-access tours,
an opportunity to educate at Lanakila Senior Center,
and of course, a research project geared to improve
clinical outcomes. However, what made this program
truly special to me were the countless meaningful
interactions along the way. From physicians and
administrators in O‘ahu and Kaua‘i, who generously
donated valuable time to provide personal insight
into their specialties, to the patients of Kalaupapa,
who graciously opened my eyes to the essentiality
of humanistic care for all, I have learned from each
individual about the breadth of medicine. They have
all stoked my motivation to become a physician.
Most remarkably Dr. Keith Matsumoto shared during
Careers in Medicine, “doctors don’t treat colds, they
treat patients with colds.” Although simple, I have
taken this wisdom to heart, further understanding
that medicine is a noble career path driven to
restore health through honest relationships. I leave
this program optimistic and determined to become
a patient-oriented doctor in Hawai‘i, which I have
come to realize is a uniquely connected community,
and one I would like to treat myself someday.
The Summer Student Research Program (SSRP)
was a life-changing experience. Through listening
to health professionals, asking them questions,
visiting medical facilities, shadowing physicians, and
observing surgeries, we were given the opportunity
to have an inside look of various careers in medicine.
We explored all facets of medicine from primary
care to surgery, research to quality of care – learning
the significance of each and how they all work in
harmony to better the well-being of the individual,
family, and community.
To Dr. Musgrave, Andrea, Moara, and Jun, thank
you for your incredible patience and guidance
throughout my research path in pediatric
nephrology. To Dr. Brady and Dr. Kamida, a heartfelt
mahalo for opening up so many doors to the
memories that will last a lifetime. And to my SSRP
friends, it has been an honor, privilege, and pleasure
to experience the program together with you all.
I’d like to express my deepest gratitude and
appreciation to everyone who helped make the
SSRP unforgettable. Dr. Chang, thank you for your
patience and mentorship. To everyone in Hawai‘i
Pacific Health who made this adventure truly special
– thank you. Thank you Dr. Brady and Dr. Kamida for
your guidance. To my eleven scholars, now friends –
thank you for all of the help and memories that will
last a lifetime.
Tiffany and Principal Investigator Spencer Chang, MD
Straub Clinic & Hospital
My fascination for medicine grew after witnessing
iconic moments in medicine like a baby delivery
and an open-heart operation. We learned about the
many advances in health care and how medicine
is constantly evolving. Through research, we were
able to help expand current medical knowledge,
and I want to further contribute to the progress. My
curiosity spurred me to ask many questions, which
many individuals honestly and kindly responded
to. Absorbing all that I could and taking words
of wisdom to heart, I appreciated every health
professional who spent their time to talk to us.
This experience cemented my desire to become an
excellent physician.
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Morgan and Principal Investigators Kyra Len, MD (Left) and
Jessica Kosut, MD (Right)
Morgan Liu
Hollyann Loui
Senior, Carnegie Mellon University
Senior, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Like anyone else, I applied to the SSRP hoping to
gain clinical research experience and exposure.
I had no idea what to expect when I walked into
Conference Services for the first day. All I knew
was that everyone kept telling me that I was going
to have an amazing eight weeks—weeks filled with
opportunities so incredible that one may even call
them life-changing.
In the final stretch of the program, I can truly say
they were right.
Before this summer began, I was so anxious. With
the daunting task of applying to medical school
approaching, I couldn’t help but question my future
of becoming a physician. What happens if I don’t get
accepted the first year around? How do I go from
being one of a million applicants to being the onein-a-million applicant? The undertaking to fulfill my
childhood dream seemed impossible.
But, after physician after physician shared his or
her own journey through medicine, I realized that
the constant was that each was unique. There’s not
a single path to becoming a doctor, nor is there a
single trait that will make you a good one.
So, yes, I did have an opportunity to gain clinical
research experience, but I also got to do chair
robics at Lanakila Senior Center, meet patients in
Kalaupapa, form meaningful friendships with my
peers, and reaffirm my commitment to becoming a
doctor. Thank you so much to Dr. Kosut, Dr. Len, Dr.
Brady and Dr. Kamida for such a memorable summer!
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Hollyann and Principal Investigator Gregorio Maldini, MD
Straub Clinic & Hospital
“Is medicine the right career for me?” I entered
this program with a burning question in my heart. I
emerge renewed, confident, and refreshed with my
mind and heart resonating in harmony: “Yes!”
From a very early age I always wanted to become
a physician. But the journey has been bumpy
and this past year I found myself questioning my
resolve. Thanks to the SSRP, I have fallen in love
with medicine all over again. In what other field can
you provide both physical and emotional healing
to patients? I will never tire of seeing the relief in
patients’ faces after they receive the care that they
need and deserve.
The amount of exposure into the field of medicine
that the SSRP has given me in these much too
short eight weeks is incredible. I have observed ten
surgeries, spent numerous hours shadowing, and
listened to the wisdom of many physicians. I am
forever changed after travelling to the sacred lands
of Kalaupapa and Kalawao, and witnessing the birth
of a baby. I learned many things about myself as
well: I love wearing scrubs, I find surgery exciting,
and Emergency Department shadowing is my
favorite past time.
The path to a career in medicine is difficult but
worthwhile. Thank you SSRP for the tears, laughter,
smiles, and absolute joy that this program has given
me. I would like to thank my mentor Dr. Maldini,
the HPH and SSRP staff, and my fellow research
scholars—we have become a family and I look forward
to the day that we become medical colleagues.
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Taryn and Principal Investigator James Kakuda, MD
Pali Momi Medical Center
Taryn Miyake
Nicole Nakamatsu
Junior, Chapman University
Junior, University of Washington
Before I entered this program I thought I knew
exactly who I wanted to be, both in medicine and
in life. I had a very narrow understanding of what
I now see to be the complex and multi-faceted
field of health care. Through working with my
extraordinary mentor, listening to inspiring stories
from distinguished individuals, and spending
indispensable time shadowing and in the operating
room, this program has raised many essential
questions for me. I realize now that my journey
through life will not be a straight and narrow path,
and an open mind and heart are necessary to
navigate its twists and turns. This is not to say I am
completely unsure of my future—in fact, through the
refreshingly honest and raw exposure that I have
had to medicine, I am more certain than ever of my
passion for patient care and my pursuit in serving
as a physician in Hawai‘i. Having the opportunity to
further explore the realities of practicing medicine
in such a unique and caring community was a vital
experience in my development as a future doctor,
and I owe it all to this program.
Experiencing medicine as a volunteer and patient at
Shriners Hospital for Children helped me to discover
my desire to selflessly care for others in need. My
early experiences with children have inspired me to
become a physician who can create lasting impacts
on children’s lives. Being part of this program
has reaffirmed my interest in medicine and has
furthered my burning passion for pursuing a career
in healthcare.
Dr. Kakuda, your compassion and sincerity will
always be an inspiration. Thank you for sharing
your wealth of knowledge with me, both in terms
of our research project and beyond. To Dr. Brady,
Dr. Kamida, Andrea and all of those who worked to
make this program as incredible as it is, thank you
for this invaluable experience.
Nicole and Principal Investigator Janet Burlingame, MD
Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children
The Summer Student Research Program has allowed
me to expand my research skills to the clinical
setting, speak with physicians about their personal
journeys, shadow different healthcare professionals,
and grow as a person of integrity and compassion. I
am so blessed to have had the opportunity to travel
back through time, to listen to stories, and learn
about the history of Kalaupapa and its residents
with my SSRP class. Stories about the loss and
despair experienced at Kalaupapa helped to shape
my outlook on life and to appreciate advances
in modern medicine. The invaluable experiences,
unforgettable memories, and lasting friendships
made during this summer will travel with me on my
own journey to become a physician and serve the
people of Hawai‘i.
I would like to thank my principal investigator, Dr.
Janet Burlingame, for taking time out of her busy
schedule to work patiently with me, mentor me,
and for being an example of the physician I hope to
become in the future.
Thank you to Dr. Kamida, Dr. Brady, and Andrea Siu
for making this experience possible.
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Cassie and Principal Investigators Sheree Kuo, MD and Kara Wong
Ramsey, MD | Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children
Cassie Tarleton
Amanda Wasko
Senior, Yale University
Senior, Dominican University of California
My time with Hawai‘i Pacific Health’s Summer
Student Research Program has given me the
opportunity to reflect and to reconnect—with
Hawai‘i, with myself, and with why I want to go into
medicine. For the past four years, I have been caught
up in the sights and sounds of new places. My
experiences this summer, however, have reminded
me of where I come from and who I want to be.
Prior to this program, I had a very limited view
of medicine where I felt as if I was on the outside
looking in. After being a part of this program, I
felt I was finally immersed in the field of medicine
and it was here that I was able to discover two
things about myself. The first is that my passion for
medicine lies within patient care. Dr. Ashton said it
best – to paraphrase her, “What a privilege it is to
be invited into someone’s life to help and care for
them.” I realized that practicing medicine is a privilege
and I want to become a physician and develop a true
connection with patients in order to care for them and
help them begin to care for themselves.
I have had invaluable opportunities this summer to
enhance my skills and to expand my experiences,
from conducting research to observing surgeries.
Through my experiences, I have discovered my
interest in clinical research and have reaffirmed
my passion for community health. The highlight
for me, however, has been the people; to my fellow
research scholars, thank you for inspiring me. To
all of the professionals who took time out of their
busy schedules to tell us their stories, thank you
for reminding me to be open to the unknown and
excited for the future. To my PIs and to the patients I
was fortunate enough to engage with, thank you for
reminding me why I chose medicine.
It has been a privilege to be a part of Hawai‘i Pacific
Health and the Summer Student Research Program. I
have learned so much from everyone.
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Amanda and Principal Investigator Lynn Iwamoto, MD
Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children
The second thing I discovered is that I have a deep
connection to Hawai‘i, and my dream is to come
home to practice medicine. After attending Sunday
Church at Kalaupapa, one resident described how
it brought him so much joy to see the church filled
once again. This brought tears to my eyes and
strengthened my love for Hawai‘i and its people.
Hawai‘i and its culture is special and if I am fortunate
enough, I hope to return home to care for the people
of Hawai‘i.
This program was an invaluable experience that
helped me learn about medicine as well as myself.
I would like to thank Dr. Brady, Dr. Kamida, and
Dr. Iwamoto for sharing their mana‘o. And to my
fellow research scholars, mahalo for making this
experience unforgettable.
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Inspiring Mentors
Inspiring Mentors (continued)
Melinda Ashton, MD
Janet Burlingame, MD
Spencer Chang, MD
Jessica Kosut, MD
Sheree Kuo, MD
Kyra Len, MD
Senior Vice President and
Chief Quality Officer
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Orthopedic Surgery
Pediatric Hospitalist
Neonatology
Pediatric Hospitalist
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Mark Grief, MD
Lynn Iwamoto, MD
Gregorio Maldini, MD
James Musgrave, MD
Bariatric Surgery
Neonatology
General Surgery
Pediatric Nephrology
Pali Momi Medical Center
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
James Kakuda, MD
Christi Keliipio, RN
Charles Kim, MD
Marti Taba, MD
William Tsushima, PhD
Kara Wong Ramsey, MD
Surgical Oncology
Bariatric Program Director
Urology
Family Medicine
Clinical Psychology
Neonatology
Pali Momi Medical Center
Pali Momi Medical Center
Pali Momi Medical Center
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
18 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
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Our Advisors
Our Advisors (continued)
Top left: President & CEO Ray Vara welcomes guests at the Mid-Program event on July 23, 2015. Top right: Dr. Kenneth
B. Robbins speaking with Geoffrey Kusaka, Tiffany Lau, and Bolin Chang. Botton left photo: Dr. Melinda Ashton and Elise
Chong. Bottom right photo: Dr. Keith Matsumoto with research scholars.
“Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to work patiently with us, mentor us, and for
being an example of the physician we hope to become in the future.”
Top photo: Dr. S. Kalani Brady presented information on Kalaupapa. Bottom photo: Dr. Curtis Kamida at the Straub
radiology tour.
“To our PIs, thank you for reminding us why we chose medicine.”
“I realized that practicing medicine is a privilege. Dr. Ashton said it best – ‘What a privilege it is to
be invited into someone’s life to help and care for them.’”
“To Dr. Brady and Dr. Kamida, a heartfelt mahalo for opening up so many doors
to the memories that will last a lifetime.”
“Dr. Keith Matsumoto shared during Careers in Medicine, ‘Doctors don’t treat colds. They treat
patients with colds.’ I have taken this wisdom to heart.”
20 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
“Thank you for your guidance - you made this adventure truly special.”
SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM | 21
Medical Curriculum
Life Cycle of Research
The Research Scholars attended informational sessions on research-- from idea generation
to statistical analysis and research presentation.
Hawai‘i Pacific Health Research Institute
David Horio, MD
Literature Search
Health Science Library
John A. Burns School of Medicine
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Angela Lee
Research Study Design, Protocol
Development, Biostatistics, How to Write
an Abstract/Paper
How to Present Your Research
S. Kalani Brady, MD, MPH, MACP
Biostatistics and Data Management Core
John A. Burns School of Medicine
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Hyeong Jun Ahn, PhD
James Davis, PhD, MS
Eunjung Lim, PhD, MS
Andrea Siu, MPH, Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Research Institute
“Conducting research taught me that
Clockwise from top left: Charlene Caoili and Geoffrey Kusaka were guests on “The Body Show,” a weekly radio program on Hawai‘i
Public Radio hosted by Kathleen Kozak, MD. Principal Investigator Dr. Charles Kim with Nicole Chong. Dr. Ivy Nip Asano, Director
of Admissions at JABSOM, with the research scholars. The students on the JABSOM tour. The students with Dr. Andras Bratincsak,
Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children. Principal Investigator Dr. Gregorio Maldini with Amanda Wasko and Tiffany Lau.
Hilton Raethel from HMSA.
medicine is an intellectual, challenging
field that seeks the advancement of
knowledge and improvement of care;
boundaries are constantly pushed to
give those in need the very best care.”
“I have emerged from this program a different person, with reshaped goals, and a stronger
passion and appreciation for medicine and life.”
22 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
Top photo: Research consultant Andrea Siu with Morgan Liu, Taryn Miyake and Bolin Chang. Bottom photo: Biostatistician
Hyeong Jun Ahn, PhD with Charlene Caoili and research consultant Moara Palma.
SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM | 23
Careers In Medicine
Careers In Medicine (continued)
Through the “Careers in Medicine” sessions, the Research Scholars have the opportunity
to speak directly with physicians and health care administrators about the daily practice
of medicine.
Bariatric Surgery
Mark Grief, MD
Infectious Disease
Francis Pien, MD
CardiologyElectrophysiology
Hingson Chun, MD
Internal Medicine
Stephen Arnold, MD
Kathleen Kozak, MD
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Mark Grattan, MD
Neonatology
Venkataraman Balaraman, MD
Donna Deng, MD
Marissa Faokosita, MD
Kara Wong Ramsey, MD
Child Psychology
Wendi Hirsch, PhD
and Tucker
Emergency Medicine
Mark Baker, MD
Jennifer Ping, MD
Family Medicine
Dale Glenn, MD
Marti Taba, MD
General Surgery
Gregorio Maldini, MD
Health Care
Administration- Hawai‘i
Pacific Health
Raymond P. Vara, Jr.
President & CEO
Top photo: Dr. Venkataraman Balaraman organized a “careers in medicine” lunch with neonatologists and other
specialists at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children. Center left photo: Dr. Mark Grattan and research scholars.
Center right: Dr. Elizabeth Tam shares her career story. Bottom left photo: Dr. Dale Glenn with students. Bottom right
photo: Dr. Francis Pien and students.
“My heart and mind have been opened in ways I could not have ever imagined because
of the incredible conversations and exposure we had with physicians, hospital CEOs and
administrators, and health care professionals.”
“Absorbing all that I could and taking words of wisdom to heart, I appreciated every health
professional who spent their time to talk with us.”
Nursing
Patty Boeckmann, RN
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Janet Burlingame, MD
Orthopedic Surgery
Cass Nakasone, MD
Palliative Care
Dawn Minaai, MD
Sherry Saito, MD
Michelle Cantillo, RN
Pathology
Owen Chan, MD
Kenneth Robbins, MD
Pediatrics
Executive Vice President Keith Matsumoto, MD
and Chief Medical Officer Malia Shimokawa, MD
Melinda Ashton, MD
Pediatric Cardiology
Senior Vice President and Andras Bratincsak, MD
Chief Quality Officer
Pediatric Hospitalist
Kyra Len, MD
Barry Mizuo, MD
Pediatric Intensive Care
Len Tanaka, MD
Pediatric Sports Medicine
Jennifer King, DO
Plastic Surgery
James Penoff, MD
Pulmonology
Elizabeth K. Tam, MD, PhD
Quality
Michael Mihara, MD
Radiology
Rosalyn Cheng, MD
Sports Medicine
Justin Young, MD
Surgical Oncology
James Kakuda, MD
Urology
Charles Kim, MD
Vascular Surgery
Elna Masuda, MD
“To all of the professionals who took time out
of their busy schedules to tell us their stories,
thank you for reminding me to be open to the
unknown and excited for the future.”
I have learned from each individual about the
breadth of medicine. They have all stoked my
motivation to become a physician.”
“Physician after physician shared his or her own journey through medicine – there is not a single
path to becoming a doctor, nor is there a single trait that will make you a good one.”
24 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
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Behind the Scenes
Tours of Facilities
We want to thank the following who organized tours and orientations:
Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Epic Training
Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Simulation Lab
Paul Patterson, RN
Health Care Insurance
Hilton Raethel, HMSA
InVision Imaging
Eric Hannum
John A. Burns
School of Medicine
Ivy Nip Asano, MD
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Kenneth Nakamura, MD
Kapi‘olani Medical Center
for Women & Children
Simulation Lab
L
en Tanaka, MD
Pali Momi Medical Center
James Kakuda, MD
Kathleen Souza, Physician Services
Straub Clinic & Hospital
A
rt Gladstone, CEO
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Cath Lab
H
ingson Chun, MD
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Operating Room
Orientation
Straub Clinic & Hospital
Radiology
A
lbert Yeung, MD
University of Hawai‘i
Cancer Center
S
haron Shigemasa
University Health Alliance
George McPheeters, MD
Waikiki Health Center
E
lliot Kalauawa, MD
Wilcox Memorial Hospital
and Kaua‘i Medical Clinic
Jen Chahanovich, CEO
Allon Amitai, MD
Howard Chen, MD
John Culliney, MD
Anne Dempsey, MD
Carol Fujiyoshi, MD
Matthew Ruel, MD
Robert Wotring, MD
Geri Young, MD
Carl Yu, MD
Top photo: Research scholars pose with
Dr. Elliott Kalauawa, Medical Director of Waikiki
Health Center. Bottom photo: Paul Patterson
and research scholars at the Hawai‘i Pacific Health
Simulation Lab.
26 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM | 27
Healthy Living- A Community Service
Support the Future of Medicine
Now in its 29th year, Hawai‘i Pacific Health’s Summer Student Research Program (SSRP) is
a highly competitive program that attracts some of Hawai‘i’s most talented college students
interested in a career in medicine. A significant amount of our nearly 300 SSRP alumni have
gone on to medical and research programs at prestigious institutions nationwide.
SSRP is a unique program that combines the experience of conducting a clinical research
study with a medical curriculum that is highlighted by the life cycle of research lectures,
careers in medicine sessions, and visits to Hawai‘i Pacific Health’s four hospitals and other
medical facilities. It’s not every day that students are offered a back-stage pass into the
world of medicine with opportunities to engage with physicians of various specialties, tour
hospitals and other medical facilities, observe surgeries, and shadow physicians.
“From its inception in 1986, the Summer Student Research Program has been the legacy of
a great partnership between our organization and the community” says Ray Vara, president
and CEO of Hawai‘i Pacific Health. “No matter what the amount, every donation to this
program is an important investment in the future of these students as well as an investment
in the future of medicine.”
This summer, five SSRP alumni were accepted into the University of Hawai‘i John A. Burns
School of Medicine and a few others chose to attend medical schools on the mainland.
Bill and Pat Taylor, former donors of Straub Foundation, established a charitable remainder
trust many years ago. With the proceeds of the trust, their daughter, Pegi Glenn, established
an endowment to support SSRP.
On July 13, 2015, the 12 Research Scholars presented on health and wellness topics to
over 200 seniors at the Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center, supported by the M. Lou
Hefley, MD Endowment Fund, established at the Straub Foundation.
Also presenting were Sally Belles, RDN, CDE (Eat Well, Live Well, Age Well) and Skip
Ludloff (Chair Robics).
A member of the SSRP Class of 2015 shared the impact of the generosity that has supported
this program. “Having the opportunity to further explore the realities of practicing medicine
in such a unique and caring community was a vital experience in my development as a
future doctor, and I owe it all to the SSRP program.”
Your contribution will help change the lives of young people who are contemplating careers
in medicine. Because of your support, SSRP will continue to provide students with an
invaluable hands-on introduction to a career in medicine.
For more information on the many ways you can support SSRP, please call 808-522-4853.
Left photo: Dr. Frank Tabrah and Dr. Robert L. Kistner with Charlene Caoili, Amanda Wasko and Nicole Chong. Right photo:
SSRP Alumni attending JABSOM, Nozomi Yamashita, Kelli Ann Ifuku, Kelli Kaneta, Teresa Porter and Lauren Ing.
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Sacred Lands of Kalaupapa
Memories that Last a Lifetime
“The road to becoming a doctor will be a long journey, and there will be many hurdles along
the way, but I know the journey is doable with the help of others, and the destination is well
worth the hardship.”
“I am forever changed after travelling to the sacred lands of Kalaupapa and Kalawao.”
“The friendships that we have woven this summer, I’m sure will last a lifetime.”
“We were given the opportunity to travel back through time, to listen to stories and learn
about the history of Kalaupapa and its residents.”
30 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM
“My time with the SSRP has given me the opportunity to reflect and to reconnect – with Hawai‘i,
with myself, and with why I want to go into medicine.”
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conference services
1100 ward avenue, suite 1045 | honolulu, hi 96814
Phone: 808-522-3469 | Fax: 808-522-4455
32 | SUMMER STUDENT RESEARCH PROGRAM