Improving access to medical transport services for rural patients

Using spatial analytics and social determinants of health to redefine critical access to medical transport services for rural populations

['FUNDING_R21'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10874489

This study looks at how where you live and your community can make it harder for people in rural areas to get emergency medical transport, like during a heart attack or stroke, and it aims to find better ways to help these patients get the care they need.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10874489 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how geographic and social factors affect access to medical transport services for patients living in rural areas. It aims to analyze data on interhospital transfers, particularly during emergencies like heart attacks or strokes, to understand the challenges faced by these patients. By examining social determinants of health and their impact on patient outcomes, the study seeks to identify ways to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of medical transport services. The goal is to create a more equitable healthcare system for rural populations by addressing the unique barriers they face.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural areas who may require emergency medical transport services.

Not a fit: Patients living in urban areas or those who do not require emergency medical transport services may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved medical transport services, ultimately saving lives and enhancing health outcomes for rural patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing social determinants of health can significantly improve healthcare access and outcomes, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.