Our Mission Relias Institute, the research arm of Relias, conducts clinical research studies related to prevention, treatment, and delivery of services to people with health conditions and studies the impact of assessments, analytics, and training on healthcare outcomes. Our mission is to increase knowledge and understanding of the use of data analytics, assessments, and learning to enhance the quality of care and measurably improve the lives of the most vulnerable members of society and those that care for them. Featured Research Studies Determining the Impact of Best Fit for Newly Licensed Nurses Preparing new nursing graduates for independent practice as soon as safely possible is vital for both efficient and effective patient care. Using Claims Data to Assess Treatment Quality of First-Episode Psychosis This longitudinal study aimed to measure that gap by using a large Medicaid claims database and 10 quality indicators (QIs) reflecting aspects of CSC and to study the relationship between these QIs and future health care utilization. Examining Cesarean Delivery Rates by Race: A Population-Based Analysis Using the Robson Ten-Group Classification System The current study examines racial differences in cesarean section delivery rates using the Robson Ten-Group Classification System in a nationwide sample. Research Team Elise Valdes, Ph. D Director of Research – Health Care, Relias Institute Elise designs and coordinates clinical research studies across the healthcare field, focusing primarily on senior care and post-acute care. She collaborates within Relias’ departments as well as with industry partners and academic thought leaders. Elise holds a PhD in Aging Studies from the University of South Florida, where her dissertation focused on cognitive speed of processing training for older adults with neurodegenerative diseases. She has conducted numerous research studies on older adult health and cognition and has published and presented these studies in several national and international journals and conferences. Elise’s passion is improving older adult health, cognition, and quality of life, and improving education and technology. Find Elise on LinkedIn or Email Elise Research Partners