The Department of Cardiology has been participating in basic and clinical research for over 15 years at both the Austin Hospital and Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital.

Clinical trials may be multi-centre, involving other major centres in Australia and around the world, while some trials may be smaller and based in-house.

New drugs, treatments and devices are trialed to ensure efficacy and safety, with a goal to improving patient outcomes in the future. Research is conducted in all areas of cardiology, including interventional, electrophysiology and heart failure.

Patient participation in research trials is totally voluntary and consent is obtained only after full explanation and time for consideration is given. Participants are closely monitored and followed up by a research nurse and a study doctor at regular intervals.