Improving fairness in the allocation of advanced heart failure therapies

Seeking Objectivity in Allocation of Advanced Heart Failure (SOCIAL HF) Therapies Trial

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10917029

This study is looking to make sure that everyone with advanced heart failure gets a fair chance at receiving important treatments like heart transplants and devices that help the heart pump better, by using special training and better ways to discuss and decide on treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10917029 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address biases in the allocation of advanced heart failure therapies, such as heart transplants and ventricular assist devices. It utilizes a standardized protocol that includes evidence-based training to reduce bias, objective evaluations of social support, and improved meeting dynamics to promote equitable decision-making. By implementing these strategies, the study seeks to enhance the fairness and effectiveness of treatment allocation for patients with advanced heart failure. The research will assess both the real-world effectiveness and the implementation of these protocols through a cluster randomized design.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced heart failure who may be eligible for therapies like heart transplants or ventricular assist devices.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage heart failure or those who are not candidates for advanced therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more equitable access to advanced heart failure therapies for all patients, regardless of their background.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that standardized protocols can effectively reduce bias in medical decision-making, suggesting that this approach may yield positive results.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Conditions Chronic Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.