The Richard A. & Susan F.

Smith Center for Outcomes Research

A National Leader in Evidence-Based Cardiovascular Research

   

We are a team of researchers and physicians using clinical trials and data analysis to assess the current state of cardiovascular care in the United States. We evaluate clinical practices, therapies and devices that are used to treat the full range of cardiovascular conditions. Our evidence-based studies point the way to better practices and better outcomes for patients.

We're fortunate to be associated with the CardioVascular Institute (CVI) at BIDMC, where cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and vascular surgeons provide comprehensive care for the heart and vascular system. The expertise of our physician colleagues is invaluable as we work together to rapidly apply the insights gained through our research to deliver the most effective care to our patients.

We appreciate the generosity of Richard A. and Susan F. Smith in making it possible to pursue our goal: the transformation of cardiovascular care in the United States.

Robert W. Yeh, MD, MSc, MBA
Director

Doctor uses stethoscope to listen to an elderly individual’s heart
Alarming Trends in Cardiovascular Health Among Middle-Aged Adults
Using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, new study found a significant increase in cardiovascular risk factors among middle-aged adults, as well as enduring inequities between higher-income and lower-income individuals.
Dr. Robert Gerszten, Dr. Rishi Wadhera, Chantal Henry, and Dr. Peter Zimetbaum, all posed and smiling at a formal event
Fellowship for UIM Students
The Joan and Marcel Zimetbaum Fellowship supports students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in medicine in a unique one-year intensive program, providing foundational training in biostatistics & public health with faculty mentorship.
Surgeon in OR
Study Finds Common Complication of Pacemakers Four Times Higher Than Previously Thought
In a large, nationwide sample of Medicare beneficiaries, the incidence of lead-related venous obstruction among patients implanted with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices to be four times higher than previously reported.
A dial with a heart in the center, the dial hand pointing to a red zone, indicating high stress.
Nationally Representative Study Shows Disparities Persist in Lipid Control
In a study assessing whether lipid concentrations & rates of lipid control changed among US adults from 2007 to 2018, investigators found while mean cholesterol concentrations improved, there were concerning variations in these trends by race & ethnicity.
A close-up on a black individual’s arm with a pressure cuff, and a doctor’s hand placing a stethoscope on the cuff.
Black Adults Treated for Common Arterial Disease are at Greater Risk of Amputation and Death than White Adults
In a nationwide analysis of Medicare beneficiaries, investigators documented racial differences in treatment and outcomes for patients with peripheral artery disease.
Smith Center Group, 2022
Program Award for a Culture of Excellence in Mentoring
The Harvard Medical School Office for Diversity Inclusion and Community Partnership has awarded the Smith Center with a 2022 Program Award for a Culture of Excellence in Mentoring for efforts to foster excellence, innovation & sustainability in mentoring.
Group of four teenagers with backpacks talking amongst themselves
Mental Health & Substance Use Among Homeless Adolescents
Research by Rishi Wadhera, MD, and Michael Liu, MPhil, found that homeless adolescents experienced significantly worse mental health and more substance use than their housed counterparts in the United States.
Two surgeons in OR
BIDMC Research Guides FDA Action on Common Medical Device
Research led by Eric Secemsky, MD, and Robert Yeh, MD and the FDA supports and updated device label and long-term program to monitor safety of a common aortic stent graft.

An International Leader in Evidence-Based Cardiovascular Research

Our mission is to apply to the highest standards of scientific evaluation to essential questions in cardiovascular medicine. We combine state-of-the-science methods with deep clinical expertise to understand and improve patient outcomes and advance population health.

Read more about our research