Institute for the Study of Urologic Diseases

Aim

The Institute for the Study of Urologic Diseases (ISUD) was established in 2005 by scientists- members of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) and the Research Committee of the AUTH.

The aim of ISUD is to promote scientific research, to educate health providers and patients, as well as raise the awareness of citizens on issues concerning the prevention, diagnosis and therapy of urological diseases.

Organizational structure

ISUD’s organizational structure and activities have been based on the precious experience that was gained by the Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health (CSRH) of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. The CSRH was established in 1998 at the Aristotle University and comprises the model for the development of ISUD’s four centers. Each of ISUD’s centers focuses on a specific domain of urology:
Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health (CSRH) (link with relevant text)
Center for research on Prostate Diseases (CRPD)
Center for research on Continence and Disorders of the pelvic floor (CRC)
Research Center for Health Promotion (RCHP)

Funding

ISUD is supported by sponsors and cooperates with European and International Health Organizations, Universities, Hospitals, private companies and associations. ISUD is funded by European programs and the provision of services such as seminars, publications and counseling.

Human resources

ISUD’s human resources consist of scientists of different specializations who promote a multi- dimensional approach. Besides permanent staff, ISUD has scientific advisors who are scientists of international validity with expertise in research and clinical practice. In addition, ISUD cooperates with Greek and international academic and research departments.

ISUD’s model

The theoretical model that supports ISUD’s activities aims to bring together research with education and care provision. The aim of this model is to enhance research activities, to continuously harmonize education with research advances, and to improve health care services according to new scientific knowledge and the patients’ needs. The model is based on the axis Academic Research- Clinical practice- Patients’ quality of life and is succeeded through the connection of University- Health system- Community. ISUD believes that the promotion of health, which according to the World Health Organization is defined as biological, psychological and social welfare, can bee achieved only through continuous research efforts, in a system of efficiently trained health providers which are ready to face the individual needs of patients and through activated citizens/ patients. Although the important role of social structure and the health system is acknowledged, ISUD adopts a bottom – approach focusing on the provider- consumer level, in order to enhance therapeutic outcomes and people’s health.