Lee Health Hosts Inaugural Research Day to Showcase Medical Advancements Across the Health System

Lee Health made history on March 11 with its first-ever Research Day, an exciting event that pulled back the curtain on groundbreaking medical discoveries happening right here in the Southwest Florida community. Attendees got an up-close look at the cutting-edge research led by dedicated physicians, residents, and healthcare professionals—work that is shaping the future of medicine every single day.

Celebrating 28 years of pioneering research, Lee Health took this milestone to the next level with an impressive showcase of innovation. More than 130 researchers presented 38 thought-provoking studies through dynamic poster sessions, in-depth self-directed reviews, and engaging oral presentations. The event even spotlighted the transformative role of artificial intelligence in medicine, proving that at Lee Health, the future of healthcare is being redefined.

There were also presentations from Lee Health’s internal medicine and family medicine residency programs, pharmacy services, and a keynote address from the Lee Health Heart Institute. The event was held at HealthPark Medical Center located at 9981 S. HealthPark Dr. in Fort Myers.

From groundbreaking discoveries to advancements in patient care, Lee Health Research Day showcased the organization’s dedication to driving innovation and advancing medical treatment in Southwest Florida.

Physical therapist Paula Shulthiess presented on the Effects of Triaging Patients in an Acute Care Setting for Potential Physical Therapy Needs. 

“I’m honored to be a part of and present at the inaugural Research Day alongside my colleagues Emily Hauff, David Brown and Alison Hammergren. It was great to see the different specialties represented across Lee Health and learn more about the role they play in the health system,” Shulthiess said. “It’s important for the community to know that they can come to a healthcare setting that values evidence-based practices and research to advance and enhance patient care and provide the best care at the right time.”

Other presentation topics included a study to increase breast cancer screening rates, a keynote speech and presentations from the Lee Health Heart Institute as well as a study on the impact of COVID-19 in pregnancy during the Delta variant period.

“We’re proud to have shared with the community the groundbreaking research taking place throughout our health system,” said Dr. Elvin Mendez, Medical Director of Academics, Clinical Research and Personalized Medicine. “This research not only holds the potential for new treatments and a deeper understanding of diseases and other conditions, but it also contributes to the evolution of health policies and enhanced patient care. Lee Health is dedicated to shaping the future of healthcare by providing educational opportunities and engaging in clinical research. These efforts help prepare the next generation to deliver careful, evidence-based, compassionate care to Southwest Florida and beyond.”

The following individuals who were also recognized during the event:

• Dr. Elvin Mendez was honored for his vision and dedication to making Research Day a reality.
• Dr. Richard Chazal was honored for his commitment to advancing the Lee Health Heart Institute’s research efforts on a global scale.
• Chief Development, Marketing and Communications Officer for the Lee Health Foundation Chris Simoneau was honored for his support and championship of the first ever Lee Health Research Day.
• Pam Fowler was honored for her contributions to advancing knowledge and learning in research.

Many of the topics from the Lee Health Heart Institute will also be presented at this year’s annual American College of Cardiology Conference at the end of the month. 

For more information on Research Day, please visit www.leehealth.org.