Improving Health for People with Chronic Conditions by Addressing Systemic Barriers

Improving Chronic Disease Outcomes Across the Lifespan by Addressing Structural Racism

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-11123489

This project helps healthcare systems better support adults and caregivers, especially those from racialized groups, by improving how social needs are met to improve chronic disease outcomes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11123489 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project looks at how healthcare systems can better address social needs, like housing or food, for adults and their caregivers who live with chronic conditions. We want to understand why current systems sometimes fall short, especially for caregivers of color who might face extra challenges. The goal is to make sure that when social needs are identified, they are actually addressed, leading to better health for everyone. We are building on a successful program called WE CARE, which helps connect families to social services.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older with chronic conditions, particularly those from racialized groups, and their caregivers, who interact with healthcare systems.

Not a fit: Patients whose chronic conditions are not impacted by social determinants of health or who do not experience systemic barriers may not directly benefit from this specific intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more equitable and effective healthcare systems that better address patients' social needs, ultimately improving chronic disease outcomes for many.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work on the WE CARE system has shown success in increasing referrals to social services and resource receipt among low-income families.

Where this research is happening

WORCESTER, 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.