Improving access to cancer care for underserved populations
Improving cancer health equity by targeting physician networks
This study is looking at ways to make it easier for people in rural areas, those with lower incomes, and racial minorities to get the cancer care they need by figuring out how cancer specialists can work better together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10876932 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance access to cancer care for patients living in rural areas, those with lower socioeconomic status, and racial minorities. It focuses on understanding the relationships between cancer specialists and how these connections can be optimized to improve patient outcomes. By analyzing patient-sharing patterns and geographic proximity among specialists, the study aims to create a framework that standardizes access to cancer care. The researchers will develop a new measure called linchpin centrality to identify key specialists who can significantly impact patient access.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include cancer patients who are rural residents, belong to racial minority groups, or have lower socioeconomic status.
Not a fit: Patients who do not face barriers to accessing cancer care or who are already receiving adequate treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to cancer care for underserved populations, ultimately enhancing treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that improving access to care can reduce disparities in cancer outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Hanover, United States
- Dartmouth College — Hanover, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moen, Erika — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Moen, Erika
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.