DaVita Clinical Research® (DCR), a Phase I-IV clinical trial research service business specializing in renal-related drug and device research and development for FDA approval, reports it completed 13 Phase-I clinical trials in 2007 and has another 34 active trials in late stage drug development-a company record.

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DCR®, through its commitment to quality, timely and accurate clinical trials, plays a valuable role by partnering with physicians, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to develop and progress new drug therapies for patients diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The increase in completed and late stage trials also serves as an indication of continued innovation and investment for end stage renal disease (ESRD) research.

"The recent DaVita Clinical Research accomplishments can be attributed to our continuous research quality index measurements and commitment to service excellence," said Chris Rucker, DCR Vice President and General Manager. "These values serve as a catalyst for our research objectives, and allow us to participate in the advancement of renal knowledge and practice."

DCR has nearly two decades of experience in conducting Phase I-IV clinical trials, and is the nation's largest renal research network dedicated to providing and supporting clinical and data research. DCR provides Phase-I renal studies services including renal, Hepatic, CV, Dermatology and Endocrine subjects, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and drug interactions. Phase II- IV renal studies services include pre ESRD and ESRD subjects, clinical efficacy and safety, special populations and post marketing studies.

"Since departing full-time academics for private practice, DaVita Clinical Research has helped me to continue my clinical research efforts," said Robert I. Lynn, M.D. of Nephrology & Hypertension Associates. "The staff locates high quality studies and makes it easier to do clinical trials in DaVita® facilities. They are friendly, responsive and supportive, and DaVita Clinical Research really does work with you not only to get a research effort 'off the ground,' but also to help it develop and prosper."

DaVita and DaVita Clinical Research are registered trademarks of DaVita Inc. All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

About DaVita Inc.

DaVita Inc., a FORTUNE 500® company, is a leading provider of kidney care in the United States, providing dialysis services and education for patients with chronic kidney failure and end stage renal disease. DaVita manages more than 1,300 outpatient facilities and acute units in more than 700 hospitals located in 43 states and the District of Columbia, serving approximately 107,000 patients. For more information about DaVita and its kidney education programs, please visit http://www.davita.com/.

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SOURCE: DaVita Clinical Research