Examining how geographic differences affect liver transplant waitlist outcomes
Geographic Variation in Non-HCC MELD Exceptions and Its Effect on Liver Transplant Waitlist Outcomes
This study looks at how differences in liver disease scores in various areas affect who gets a liver transplant, aiming to understand why some patients have a harder time getting the help they need and to find ways to make sure everyone has a fair chance at receiving a transplant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063114 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how variations in the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores across different regions impact the allocation of donor livers for transplantation. It focuses on understanding the discrepancies in waitlist mortality risk and how these differences can affect patient access to liver transplants. By analyzing both calculated and allocation MELD scores, the study aims to highlight the role of MELD exception points and the influence of social determinants of health on transplant outcomes. The goal is to inform policies that could lead to more equitable access to liver transplants across geographic areas.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage liver disease who are on the liver transplant waitlist or are considering transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients with liver disease who are not on the transplant waitlist or those who are not eligible for transplantation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved policies that ensure fairer access to liver transplants for patients, regardless of their geographic location.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that geographic disparities in healthcare access can significantly impact patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach has the potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cannon, Robert M. — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Cannon, Robert M.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.