Improving access to liver transplants for underserved communities
Liver Transplant-Community Access for Referral Equity (LT-CARE) Pilot Study
This study is looking at how to make it easier for Black individuals and other underserved groups to get liver transplants by finding out what barriers they face and working with local doctors to improve awareness and access to this important treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11057773 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the inequities in accessing liver transplants, particularly for Black individuals and other underserved populations. It aims to identify barriers that prevent patients from receiving timely referrals for liver transplants and to develop strategies to improve access to this life-saving treatment. The study will involve community gastroenterology practices to enhance awareness and knowledge about liver transplant protocols among healthcare providers. By engaging with these communities, the research seeks to create a more equitable pathway for patients in need of liver transplants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with decompensated cirrhosis, particularly those from Black or Hispanic/Latino/a/x backgrounds, who may face barriers to accessing liver transplant services.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have liver disease or those who are not part of the targeted underserved populations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the number of patients from underserved communities who receive timely liver transplants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted disparities in liver transplant referrals, indicating that addressing these inequities could lead to improved outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential based on existing evidence.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nephew, Lauren — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Nephew, Lauren
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.