Predicting suicide risk among military veterans using civilian health records

Predicting firearm suicide in military veterans outside the VA health system using linked civilian electronic health record data

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11049197

This study is looking to find out what factors might lead to suicide, especially by firearm, among military veterans who aren't using VA healthcare services, so we can better identify and help those at risk.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11049197 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to understand and predict the risk of suicide, particularly by firearm, among military veterans who do not use Veterans Health Administration (VHA) services. By analyzing a large database of civilian electronic health records, the study will identify unique health conditions and risk factors that contribute to suicide in this population. The goal is to develop predictive algorithms that can help in early identification and intervention for veterans at risk. This approach focuses on veterans' healthcare experiences outside the VHA, which have been largely overlooked in previous research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military veterans who are 21 years or older and have received healthcare outside of the Veterans Health Administration.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently receiving care exclusively through the Veterans Health Administration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and interventions that significantly reduce suicide rates among military veterans.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on veteran suicide within the VHA, this approach of using civilian health records to predict suicide risk in veterans is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.