Gregory A. Nichols, PhD, combines scientific training and policy vision with a hands-on understanding of the complexities of obtaining and analyzing health-utilization data. Dr. Nichols constructed Kaiser Permanente Northwest's Diabetes Registry in 1989 and has used it to conduct health services, economic, and epidemiologic research studies on patients before and after diabetes diagnosis. A recent focus of his work is chronic kidney disease and heart failure in type 2 diabetes.
Other areas of interest include cardiovascular disease and the precursors to both diabetes and cardiovascular disease, commonly known as metabolic syndrome. Past projects include leading the creation of an 11-site diabetes registry that involves HMO research partners from around the United States, and studies of the association between hyperglycemia and cardiovascular disease. Dr. Nichols has participated in several multi-site studies that combine data from KPNW and other Kaiser Permanente regions. Before becoming a CHR investigator, Dr. Nichols served as a senior research associate at CHR, a rate analyst for KP, and a financial analyst for Northrop Corp. He holds a PhD in public administration and policy from Portland State University and an MBA from Pepperdine University.