Improving access to dental care for underserved populations
Advancing oral health equity through integrating patient, provider, and population-based approaches
This study is looking at how different things, like where you live and your background, can make it easier or harder for people to get good dental care, especially for those who haven't always had a fair chance, so we can find better ways to help everyone have a healthy smile.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017553 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance oral health equity by examining how different factors affect access to and quality of dental care for various populations. It will utilize a multi-level approach that considers the perspectives of patients, providers, and the broader community to identify barriers and facilitators to dental care. By focusing on historically underrepresented groups, the research will gather new data and insights that can inform policies and practices to improve dental health outcomes. The methodologies employed will include innovative investigations that address the complex interactions between social, economic, and environmental factors impacting oral health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals from historically underrepresented populations who face barriers to accessing dental care.
Not a fit: Patients who already have adequate access to dental care and do not experience disparities in oral health may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to dental care and better health outcomes for underserved populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing health disparities through multi-level approaches, indicating potential for impactful outcomes in this area.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heaton, Brenda — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Heaton, Brenda
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.