Improving care for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in VA primary care
Official title: Testing the Effectiveness of NAFLD Clinical Care Pathway in VA Primary Care
Funded at Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center · NIH-11018535 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to help veterans get better care for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by using a clear plan that makes it easier for doctors to spot and treat the condition, so they can avoid serious liver problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01HX003655-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018535 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 21 and older who may be at risk for or diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have NAFLD or are not veterans may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the identification and management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among veterans receiving care in primary care settings. It utilizes a structured Clinical Care Pathway that includes a series of steps such as risk identification, targeted history, lab testing, and non-invasive fibrosis assessment. By implementing this pathway, the research aims to ensure that more veterans are accurately diagnosed and receive appropriate treatment for NAFLD, which is crucial for preventing severe liver complications. The study will adapt and test this pathway within the VA system to improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnosis and management of NAFLD, ultimately reducing the risk of severe liver disease among veterans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that structured care pathways can effectively improve patient outcomes in chronic disease management, suggesting a strong potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: El-Serag, Hashem B — Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: El-Serag, Hashem B
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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.