NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Examining how integrated palliative care affects health outcomes in Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia.

Official title: Leveraging a Natural Experiment to Determine the Effects of Integrated Palliative Care on Health Service Outcomes and Disparities in Parkinson Disease and Lewy Body Dementia

Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10701322 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how adding palliative care can help people with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's disease dementia feel better by managing their symptoms and planning their care, so they can avoid unnecessary hospital visits and get the support they need.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startAugust 21, 2023
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$2,307,536
NIH project number1RF1NS132673-01
Project IDNIH-10701322 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson Disease or Parkinson Disease Dementia, particularly those experiencing non-motor symptoms.

Less likely to help

Patients with other neurological disorders unrelated to Parkinson's disease or Lewy body dementia may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of integrated palliative care on individuals with Parkinson Disease (PD) and Parkinson Disease Dementia (PDD). It aims to address the underrecognition and undertreatment of non-motor symptoms, which often lead to unnecessary hospitalizations. By focusing on advanced care planning, symptom management, and equitable care delivery, the study seeks to improve health service outcomes and reduce disparities among patients. The methodology includes analyzing care delivery processes and health system factors that contribute to unequal treatment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved quality of life and health outcomes for patients with Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that tailored palliative care can significantly improve outcomes for patients with chronic illnesses, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Pennsylvania
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Willis, Allison — University of Pennsylvania
  • Study coordinator: Willis, Allison

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.