Clinic Named Parkinson’s "Center of Excellence"

The Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education and Clinical Center at the Houston VA Medical Center has been designated a "Center of Excellence" by the national Veterans Health Administration, based on its outstanding expertise in the care and medical management of veterans with Parkinson’s disease. The center is one of six new VA "Centers of Excellence" specializing in research, education, and clinical care for veterans with Parkinson’s and related movement disorders. The other five are located in Philadelphia; Richmond, Va.; Los Angeles; San Francisco; and Portland/Seattle.

Each of these centers submitted additional pilot studies for consideration and approval, demonstrating their individual research specializations. The studies range from basic research like adult stem cell and infusion techniques, to clinical studies such as medication trials and rehabilitative gait training.

The Houston VA Medical Center was also selected based on its research capabilities. In addition to conducting research on drug trials, rehabilitation, epidemiology, health services delivery, and quality of life, the Houston center will participate in a landmark study to assess the effectiveness of surgical implantation of deep-brain stimulators in reducing the symptoms of advanced Parkinson’s disease. Houston VA Medical Center staff members are evaluating implantation at different sites within the nucleus (subthalamic nucleus versus globus pallidus) to determine which provides better symptom relief.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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