Examining how critically ill patients are transferred between hospitals for better care.

Use of Inter-Hospital Transfer Services in Critical Illness and Acute Respiratory Failure

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10876987

This study, led by Dr. Christopher Worsham, is looking at how well hospitals transfer critically ill patients with breathing problems and aims to find ways to make these transfers safer and more effective for better patient care and lower costs.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10876987 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the practices and effectiveness of inter-hospital transfer services for critically ill patients, particularly those experiencing acute respiratory failure. Led by Dr. Christopher Worsham, a pulmonologist and critical care physician, the project aims to analyze large datasets to understand how these transfers impact patient outcomes and healthcare costs. The study will utilize advanced methods of causal inference and decision science to evaluate the value of these critical care transport services. By collaborating with a team of experts, the research seeks to improve the decision-making process regarding patient transfers in critical care settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include critically ill patients who may require transfer to specialized intensive care units due to acute respiratory failure.

Not a fit: Patients who are stable and do not require inter-hospital transfer for their condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved protocols for transferring critically ill patients, potentially enhancing their recovery and overall outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that optimizing inter-hospital transfer processes can significantly improve patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 2026-06-13 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.