Examining healthcare disparities in eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma

Health Disparities in Utilization, Quality, and Outcomes for Three Common Ocular Conditions (HealthDOC)

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11046528

This study looks at how things like income, education, and where you live can impact the quality and availability of eye care for conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, with the goal of finding ways to make sure everyone gets the care they need, no matter their background.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046528 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how social determinants of health affect the quality and accessibility of care for common eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. By analyzing data from electronic health records, the study aims to identify disparities in treatment and outcomes among different racial and ethnic groups. The approach includes evaluating existing healthcare quality measures and their effectiveness in addressing these disparities. Patients may benefit from improved understanding and potential changes in healthcare practices that promote equitable access to eye care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds who are experiencing cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any of the targeted ocular conditions or those who are not from diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healthcare practices that ensure all patients receive equitable treatment for eye conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing healthcare disparities can lead to improved patient outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.