Improving Patient\Population Health: Using ‘Why’ to Develop a Transformative Research Center

INTRODUCTION: Novel approaches to address the most vexing problems facing patients and vulnerable populations are needed. The purpose of this project was to establish an innovative research Center based on the principles of transformational organizations. METHODS: A new Center formed included faculty members with expertise in cancer, serious illness, and population health. Applying Sinek’s “why, how, and what” framework, members developed and refined a purpose statement and strategic objectives. The Center now includes members representing diverse disciplines. Year 1 accomplishments included a refined mission and vision statement, two funded research proposals, one submitted training grant, one administrative hire, and active recruitment of two-research faculty to support Center activities. CONCLUSIONS: The newly-formed Center for Improving Patient and Population Health has enabled scholars within a research-intensive school of nursing to forge new partnerships to compete successfully for larger, complicated grant proposals on shorter deadlines. Opportunities exist to integrate students and research staff more fully into Center operations.