Examining the impact of public health disasters on Puerto Rico's healthcare system
The Puerto Rico Healthcare System Before and After Three Public Health Disasters
This study looks at how big natural disasters, like Hurricane Maria, have impacted healthcare in Puerto Rico, focusing on the challenges hospitals and clinics face and how these events affect your access to care and overall health in the community.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10792648 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how major natural disasters and public health emergencies have affected the healthcare system in Puerto Rico. It focuses on the challenges faced by healthcare facilities, including structural damage, staffing shortages, and disruptions in service delivery. By analyzing the aftermath of events like Hurricane Maria and subsequent earthquakes, the research aims to understand the barriers to accessing care and the overall impact on community health. Patients can expect insights into how these disasters have shaped healthcare access and quality in their region.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in Puerto Rico who have experienced healthcare disruptions due to natural disasters or public health emergencies.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been affected by the recent public health disasters in Puerto Rico may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for healthcare delivery during and after public health disasters.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the impact of disasters on healthcare systems can lead to significant improvements in emergency preparedness and response.
Where this research is happening
Honolulu, United States
- University of Hawaii at Manoa — Honolulu, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ortega, Alexander N — University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Study coordinator: Ortega, Alexander N
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.