Improving access to mental health services for cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley
Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center
This study is working to make it easier for cancer patients, especially in the Hispanic community of the Rio Grande Valley, to get the mental health support they need by bringing those services right into their regular doctor’s offices.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172390 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the mental health needs of cancer patients, particularly within the Hispanic community in the Rio Grande Valley. It aims to implement a model that integrates behavioral health services into primary care clinics, making it easier for patients to access the support they need. By targeting the unique challenges faced by cancer survivors in this region, the project seeks to improve screening for psychosocial distress and enhance overall health outcomes. The initiative will involve collaboration with local clinics to ensure that mental health services are readily available and culturally appropriate.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients and survivors, particularly those from Hispanic backgrounds living in the Rio Grande Valley.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing cancer or do not reside in the Rio Grande Valley may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mental health support for cancer patients, leading to better treatment outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that integrating behavioral health into primary care can effectively improve access to mental health services, particularly in underserved populations.
Where this research is happening
Edinburg, United States
- University of Texas Rio Grande Valley — Edinburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: George, Deepu — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: George, Deepu
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.