Using AI to understand social factors affecting health and improve healthcare services
Using Large Language Models to identify social determinants of health to enhance healthcare services and equity
This study is looking at how advanced computer programs can help find important social factors that affect your health by analyzing your stories and survey answers, with the goal of improving care for patients like you in a big hospital that serves those in need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10871560 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how large language models can be utilized to identify social determinants of health (SDH) that impact patient outcomes. By employing natural language processing and generative AI, the project aims to extract valuable information from patient narratives and surveys that are often overlooked in routine care. The collected data will be transformed into structured elements that can be integrated into electronic health records (EHR) to enhance clinical decision-making. The pilot will take place in a large academic medical center serving a vulnerable patient population, focusing on improving healthcare equity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients from at-risk populations who may have complex social needs affecting their health outcomes.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have significant social determinants impacting their health or those who are not part of the targeted at-risk populations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and equitable healthcare services by better understanding the social factors influencing patient health.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using AI and natural language processing to analyze social determinants of health, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goss, Foster R — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Goss, Foster R
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 below.