Linking clinical and community services to improve heart health in rural areas

Implementation of EMR-Integrated Referrals to Link Clinical and Community Services to Reduce Health Inequity

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10793487

This study is looking to help African Americans in rural southeastern areas who are at risk for heart disease by using a digital tool to connect them with local services that can support their health needs, making it easier for them to get the help they need to stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10793487 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the high rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among African Americans in rural southeastern communities by integrating community resources into electronic medical records (EMR). The project utilizes a digital tool called CommunityRx to connect patients with local services that can help meet their health-related social needs. By focusing on social determinants of health, the research seeks to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in CVD risk factors. The approach is grounded in established health theories and aims to create scalable solutions for vulnerable populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include African American individuals living in rural areas who are at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in rural areas or who do not identify as African American may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve heart health and reduce health inequities for patients in rural communities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that integrating community resources into healthcare can lead to improved health outcomes, indicating a promising approach in this area.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.