Centers for Research and Innovation
The Center for Healthcare Innovation and Policy
The Center for Healthcare Innovation and Policy (CHIP) was established in 2010 in response to healthcare reform and the rapidly changing market environment. Working closely with members of the faculty and administration, CHIP is the primary health policy and advocacy division of the University. By developing strategic relationships with stakeholder groups and disseminating information to health professionals, policymakers and organizations, CHIP seeks to ensure that patients have adequate access to the quality care provided by our graduates.
The proximity of campus to the Minnesota State Capitol facilitates the ability for Northwestern students to meet with legislators and participate in annual lobbying days for their professions. Additionally, CHIP is involved in national advocacy efforts and annually organizes and accompanies a large contingent of Northwestern students who travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in the National Chiropractic Leadership Conference.
On campus, CHIP hosts workshops, lectures and forums to expose students and other members of the campus community to health policy discussions that are relevant to their careers. Through leadership in several regional and national professional organizations and committees, CHIP has an extensive network to facilitate opportunities for Northwestern students and graduates.
The Wolfe-Harris Center for Clinical Studies
The Wolfe-Harris Center for Clinical Studies (WHCCS) is named for William Harris, DC, one of the University’s benefactors, and John B. Wolfe, DC, the founder and first president of Northwestern College of Chiropractic. The WHCCS was formed in 1991 as part of the 50-year celebration of Northwestern’s founding, and expanded in 2008 with the opening of the Wolfe-Harris Center for Excellence.
The WHCCS has engaged in studies investigating a range of treatments and healthcare models for spine related pain and disability, and are recognized in the scientific community as some of the highest quality evidence impacting complementary and integrative health care delivery. The WHCCS legacy of work with local, national and international collaborators has led to acquiring more than $22 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Health Resources and Services Administration and other agencies.
Beginning in 2007, WHCCS faculty engaged in research education for students and university faculty through a $1.5 million partnership project funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health at the National Institutes of Health. This landmark project, in collaboration with the University of Minnesota, developed of an innovative research curriculum spanning all of Northwestern’s academic programs. This project laid the foundation for education in evidence-informed practice competencies. These skills are essential to the next generation of high value health care providers, able to effectively integrate research evidence with their own clinical expertise and patient preferences.