Understanding how to improve prenatal syphilis screening practices
Official title: Multilevel determinants of prenatal syphilis screening policy implementation
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-10788820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at what helps or hinders doctors from doing syphilis screenings during pregnancy, with the goal of making it easier for them to follow guidelines so that more expectant moms get tested and we can reduce the number of babies born with syphilis in Texas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Worth, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $148,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03HD113901-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10788820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals receiving prenatal care in Texas who may benefit from improved syphilis screening practices.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who are not receiving prenatal care may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the various factors that affect the implementation of prenatal syphilis screening policies among healthcare providers. It aims to identify barriers and facilitators to adopting these guidelines in clinical practice, with a focus on increasing screening rates during prenatal visits. By forming a Planning Board that includes obstetric providers and patients, the study will explore practical strategies to enhance the integration of these important health policies into routine care. The ultimate goal is to reduce congenital syphilis rates in Texas by improving screening practices.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to higher rates of prenatal syphilis screening, ultimately reducing the incidence of congenital syphilis and improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeted implementation strategies can successfully increase adherence to prenatal screening guidelines, suggesting that this approach may yield positive results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Griner, Stacey B — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Griner, Stacey 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.