Meet the isti scholars
Michelle Wong
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Dr. Michelle Wong is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine at UBC, and a recipient of the Marcia Bell Distinguished Scholar Award. Her research focuses on metabolic and cardiovascular complications of kidney disease. Through collaboration between nephrologists, primary care providers, allied health professionals and patient partners, her implementation project will develop, implement, and evaluate strategies to improve follow-up care for patients hospitalized with acute kidney injury. She looks forward to learning from IS Training Program mentors and peers.
Read more about Michelle's experience as a SFU-UBC Implementation Science Scholar:
Can you tell us a little bit about your implementation science research project?
My project aims to improve follow-up care for patients who have experienced an abrupt decline in kidney function (acute kidney injury, AKI) during hospitalization. Many patients are not aware of the downstream health consequences of AKI or the importance of following up with their primary care provider & having kidney lab testing after hospital discharge. To address this gap, my team and I developed educational tools for patients and health care providers on post-AKI care, and we will pilot our implementation strategies in different regions in BC.
What motivated you to join the Implementation Science Training Initiative, and how has the program impacted your research (or career path) so far?
Implementation science is key to improving kidney care globally. We now have a lot of interventions that can prevent progression of kidney disease, but we need to apply this evidence in real-world settings. The IS training initiative has broadened my research scope, and I will be able to apply my learning to many different projects.
Can you share a key takeaway or skill you've gained from the mentorship or training that has made a difference in your work?
I've learned how to approach the design of my implementation project in a thoughtful way, by using theories/models/frameworks, applying an equity lens to our project, and planning for long-term sustainability.
What has been the most valuable part of the program for you, whether in terms of collaboration, learning, or applying what you’ve learned?
It's wonderful to tap into the local wealth of knowledge and resources in IS. There are not a lot of IS researchers in my clinical field, so I am grateful to learn from my colleagues across disciplines.
How have the quarterly webinars or mentorship opportunities helped you navigate challenges or advance your project?
My mentor Linda Li was very helpful as I was preparing an application for a planning grant for a new implementation science project.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying to this program for the next cohort?
Apply! The world needs more implementation scientists. IS will make your work more impactful.