Understanding why critically ill patients with respiratory failure and sepsis face health disparities.

Investigating mechanisms of disparities for critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure and sepsis.

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11018640

This study is looking into why critically ill patients with breathing problems and infections, especially those from minority backgrounds, often have worse health outcomes, and it aims to find ways to improve their care based on their unique challenges.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11018640 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind unequal health outcomes for critically ill patients suffering from acute respiratory failure and sepsis, particularly focusing on those from minority backgrounds. The principal investigator, Dr. Christopher Chesley, aims to identify how socioeconomic factors and hospital characteristics contribute to these disparities. By employing advanced methodologies and qualitative study designs, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms that lead to differences in clinical outcomes and length of hospital stays. The ultimate goal is to develop targeted interventions that can improve care delivery for affected populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include critically ill patients aged 21 and older who are experiencing acute respiratory failure or sepsis, particularly those from minority backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are not critically ill or those who do not have acute respiratory failure or sepsis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies and healthcare policies that reduce disparities in critical care for patients with respiratory failure and sepsis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in addressing health disparities in critical care settings, indicating that this approach has the potential for meaningful impact.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.