health information research topics

Research Topics & Ideas: Healthcare

100+ Healthcare Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Finding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’re looking for a healthcare-related research topic , but aren’t sure where to start. Here, we’ll explore a variety of healthcare-related research ideas and topic thought-starters across a range of healthcare fields, including allopathic and alternative medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, pharmacology and public health.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the healthcare domain. This is the starting point, but to develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. In it, we cover the process of writing a dissertation or thesis from start to end. Be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to find a high-quality research topic.

Overview: Healthcare Research Topics

• Allopathic medicine
• Alternative /complementary medicine
• Veterinary medicine
• Physical therapy/ rehab
• Optometry and ophthalmology
• Pharmacy and pharmacology
• Public health
• Examples of healthcare-related dissertations

Allopathic (Conventional) Medicine

• The effectiveness of telemedicine in remote elderly patient care
• The impact of stress on the immune system of cancer patients
• The effects of a plant-based diet on chronic diseases such as diabetes
• The use of AI in early cancer diagnosis and treatment
• The role of the gut microbiome in mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety
• The efficacy of mindfulness meditation in reducing chronic pain: A systematic review
• The benefits and drawbacks of electronic health records in a developing country
• The effects of environmental pollution on breast milk quality
• The use of personalized medicine in treating genetic disorders
• The impact of social determinants of health on chronic diseases in Asia
• The role of high-intensity interval training in improving cardiovascular health
• The efficacy of using probiotics for gut health in pregnant women
• The impact of poor sleep on the treatment of chronic illnesses
• The role of inflammation in the development of chronic diseases such as lupus
• The effectiveness of physiotherapy in pain control post-surgery

Topics & Ideas: Alternative Medicine

• The benefits of herbal medicine in treating young asthma patients
• The use of acupuncture in treating infertility in women over 40 years of age
• The effectiveness of homoeopathy in treating mental health disorders: A systematic review
• The role of aromatherapy in reducing stress and anxiety post-surgery
• The impact of mindfulness meditation on reducing high blood pressure
• The use of chiropractic therapy in treating back pain of pregnant women
• The efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine such as Shun-Qi-Tong-Xie (SQTX) in treating digestive disorders in China
• The impact of yoga on physical and mental health in adolescents
• The benefits of hydrotherapy in treating musculoskeletal disorders such as tendinitis
• The role of Reiki in promoting healing and relaxation post birth
• The effectiveness of naturopathy in treating skin conditions such as eczema
• The use of deep tissue massage therapy in reducing chronic pain in amputees
• The impact of tai chi on the treatment of anxiety and depression
• The benefits of reflexology in treating stress, anxiety and chronic fatigue
• The role of acupuncture in the prophylactic management of headaches and migraines

Topics & Ideas: Dentistry

• The impact of sugar consumption on the oral health of infants
• The use of digital dentistry in improving patient care: A systematic review
• The efficacy of orthodontic treatments in correcting bite problems in adults
• The role of dental hygiene in preventing gum disease in patients with dental bridges
• The impact of smoking on oral health and tobacco cessation support from UK dentists
• The benefits of dental implants in restoring missing teeth in adolescents
• The use of lasers in dental procedures such as root canals
• The efficacy of root canal treatment using high-frequency electric pulses in saving infected teeth
• The role of fluoride in promoting remineralization and slowing down demineralization
• The impact of stress-induced reflux on oral health
• The benefits of dental crowns in restoring damaged teeth in elderly patients
• The use of sedation dentistry in managing dental anxiety in children
• The efficacy of teeth whitening treatments in improving dental aesthetics in patients with braces
• The role of orthodontic appliances in improving well-being
• The impact of periodontal disease on overall health and chronic illnesses

Tops & Ideas: Veterinary Medicine

• The impact of nutrition on broiler chicken production
• The role of vaccines in disease prevention in horses
• The importance of parasite control in animal health in piggeries
• The impact of animal behaviour on welfare in the dairy industry
• The effects of environmental pollution on the health of cattle
• The role of veterinary technology such as MRI in animal care
• The importance of pain management in post-surgery health outcomes
• The impact of genetics on animal health and disease in layer chickens
• The effectiveness of alternative therapies in veterinary medicine: A systematic review
• The role of veterinary medicine in public health: A case study of the COVID-19 pandemic
• The impact of climate change on animal health and infectious diseases in animals
• The importance of animal welfare in veterinary medicine and sustainable agriculture
• The effects of the human-animal bond on canine health
• The role of veterinary medicine in conservation efforts: A case study of Rhinoceros poaching in Africa
• The impact of veterinary research of new vaccines on animal health

Topics & Ideas: Physical Therapy/Rehab

• The efficacy of aquatic therapy in improving joint mobility and strength in polio patients
• The impact of telerehabilitation on patient outcomes in Germany
• The effect of kinesiotaping on reducing knee pain and improving function in individuals with chronic pain
• A comparison of manual therapy and yoga exercise therapy in the management of low back pain
• The use of wearable technology in physical rehabilitation and the impact on patient adherence to a rehabilitation plan
• The impact of mindfulness-based interventions in physical therapy in adolescents
• The effects of resistance training on individuals with Parkinson’s disease
• The role of hydrotherapy in the management of fibromyalgia
• The impact of cognitive-behavioural therapy in physical rehabilitation for individuals with chronic pain
• The use of virtual reality in physical rehabilitation of sports injuries
• The effects of electrical stimulation on muscle function and strength in athletes
• The role of physical therapy in the management of stroke recovery: A systematic review
• The impact of pilates on mental health in individuals with depression
• The use of thermal modalities in physical therapy and its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation
• The effect of strength training on balance and gait in elderly patients

Topics & Ideas: Optometry & Opthalmology

• The impact of screen time on the vision and ocular health of children under the age of 5
• The effects of blue light exposure from digital devices on ocular health
• The role of dietary interventions, such as the intake of whole grains, in the management of age-related macular degeneration
• The use of telemedicine in optometry and ophthalmology in the UK
• The impact of myopia control interventions on African American children’s vision
• The use of contact lenses in the management of dry eye syndrome: different treatment options
• The effects of visual rehabilitation in individuals with traumatic brain injury
• The role of low vision rehabilitation in individuals with age-related vision loss: challenges and solutions
• The impact of environmental air pollution on ocular health
• The effectiveness of orthokeratology in myopia control compared to contact lenses
• The role of dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, in ocular health
• The effects of ultraviolet radiation exposure from tanning beds on ocular health
• The impact of computer vision syndrome on long-term visual function
• The use of novel diagnostic tools in optometry and ophthalmology in developing countries
• The effects of virtual reality on visual perception and ocular health: an examination of dry eye syndrome and neurologic symptoms

Topics & Ideas: Pharmacy & Pharmacology

• The impact of medication adherence on patient outcomes in cystic fibrosis
• The use of personalized medicine in the management of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease
• The effects of pharmacogenomics on drug response and toxicity in cancer patients
• The role of pharmacists in the management of chronic pain in primary care
• The impact of drug-drug interactions on patient mental health outcomes
• The use of telepharmacy in healthcare: Present status and future potential
• The effects of herbal and dietary supplements on drug efficacy and toxicity
• The role of pharmacists in the management of type 1 diabetes
• The impact of medication errors on patient outcomes and satisfaction
• The use of technology in medication management in the USA
• The effects of smoking on drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics: A case study of clozapine
• Leveraging the role of pharmacists in preventing and managing opioid use disorder
• The impact of the opioid epidemic on public health in a developing country
• The use of biosimilars in the management of the skin condition psoriasis
• The effects of the Affordable Care Act on medication utilization and patient outcomes in African Americans

Topics & Ideas: Public Health

• The impact of the built environment and urbanisation on physical activity and obesity
• The effects of food insecurity on health outcomes in Zimbabwe
• The role of community-based participatory research in addressing health disparities
• The impact of social determinants of health, such as racism, on population health
• The effects of heat waves on public health
• The role of telehealth in addressing healthcare access and equity in South America
• The impact of gun violence on public health in South Africa
• The effects of chlorofluorocarbons air pollution on respiratory health
• The role of public health interventions in reducing health disparities in the USA
• The impact of the United States Affordable Care Act on access to healthcare and health outcomes
• The effects of water insecurity on health outcomes in the Middle East
• The role of community health workers in addressing healthcare access and equity in low-income countries
• The impact of mass incarceration on public health and behavioural health of a community
• The effects of floods on public health and healthcare systems
• The role of social media in public health communication and behaviour change in adolescents

Examples: Healthcare Dissertation & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a healthcare-related research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various healthcare-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• Improving Follow-Up Care for Homeless Populations in North County San Diego (Sanchez, 2021)
• On the Incentives of Medicare’s Hospital Reimbursement and an Examination of Exchangeability (Elzinga, 2016)
• Managing the healthcare crisis: the career narratives of nurses (Krueger, 2021)
• Methods for preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection in pediatric haematology-oncology patients: A systematic literature review (Balkan, 2020)
• Farms in Healthcare: Enhancing Knowledge, Sharing, and Collaboration (Garramone, 2019)
• When machine learning meets healthcare: towards knowledge incorporation in multimodal healthcare analytics (Yuan, 2020)
• Integrated behavioural healthcare: The future of rural mental health (Fox, 2019)
• Healthcare service use patterns among autistic adults: A systematic review with narrative synthesis (Gilmore, 2021)
• Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Combatting Burnout and Compassionate Fatigue among Mental Health Caregivers (Lundquist, 2022)
• Transgender and gender-diverse people’s perceptions of gender-inclusive healthcare access and associated hope for the future (Wille, 2021)
• Efficient Neural Network Synthesis and Its Application in Smart Healthcare (Hassantabar, 2022)
• The Experience of Female Veterans and Health-Seeking Behaviors (Switzer, 2022)
• Machine learning applications towards risk prediction and cost forecasting in healthcare (Singh, 2022)
• Does Variation in the Nursing Home Inspection Process Explain Disparity in Regulatory Outcomes? (Fox, 2020)

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. This is an important thing to keep in mind as you develop your own research topic. That is to say, to create a top-notch research topic, you must be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

Need more help?

If you’re still feeling a bit unsure about how to find a research topic for your healthcare dissertation or thesis, check out Topic Kickstarter service below.

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15 Comments

I need topics that will match the Msc program am running in healthcare research please

Hello Mabel,

I can help you with a good topic, kindly provide your email let’s have a good discussion on this.

Can you provide some research topics and ideas on Immunology?

Thank you to create new knowledge on research problem verse research topic

Help on problem statement on teen pregnancy

This post might be useful: https://gradcoach.com/research-problem-statement/

can you provide me with a research topic on healthcare related topics to a qqi level 5 student

Please can someone help me with research topics in public health ?

Hello I have requirement of Health related latest research issue/topics for my social media speeches. If possible pls share health issues , diagnosis, treatment.

I would like a topic thought around first-line support for Gender-Based Violence for survivors or one related to prevention of Gender-Based Violence

Please can I be helped with a master’s research topic in either chemical pathology or hematology or immunology? thanks

Can u please provide me with a research topic on occupational health and safety at the health sector

Good day kindly help provide me with Ph.D. Public health topics on Reproductive and Maternal Health, interventional studies on Health Education

may you assist me with a good easy healthcare administration study topic

May you assist me in finding a research topic on nutrition,physical activity and obesity. On the impact on children

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77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Medical research is the gateway to improved patient care and expanding our available treatment options. However, finding a relevant and compelling research topic can be challenging.

Use this article as a jumping-off point to select an interesting medical research topic for your next paper or clinical study.

• How to choose a medical research topic

When choosing a research topic , it’s essential to consider a couple of things. What topics interest you? What unanswered questions do you want to address? 

During the decision-making and brainstorming process, here are a few helpful tips to help you pick the right medical research topic:

Focus on a particular field of study

The best medical research is specific to a particular area. Generalized studies are often too broad to produce meaningful results, so we advise picking a specific niche early in the process. 

Maybe a certain topic interests you, or your industry knowledge reveals areas of need.

Look into commonly researched topics

Once you’ve chosen your research field, do some preliminary research. What have other academics done in their papers and projects? 

From this list, you can focus on specific topics that interest you without accidentally creating a copycat project. This groundwork will also help you uncover any literature gaps—those may be beneficial areas for research.

Get curious and ask questions

Now you can get curious. Ask questions that start with why, how, or what. These questions are the starting point of your project design and will act as your guiding light throughout the process. 

For example: 

What impact does pollution have on children’s lung function in inner-city neighborhoods? 

Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise? 

How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children? 

• 77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023

Need some research inspiration for your upcoming paper or clinical study? We’ve compiled a list of 77 topical and in-demand medical research ideas. Let’s take a look. 

• Exciting new medical research topics

If you want to study cutting-edge topics, here are some exciting options:

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19. 

Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include:

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health

COVID-19 vaccination rates

The evolution of COVID-19 symptoms over time

New variants and strains of the COVID-19 virus

Changes in social behavior and public health regulations amid COVID-19

Vaccinations

Finding ways to cure or reduce the disease burden of chronic infectious diseases is a crucial research area. Vaccination is a powerful option and a great topic to research. 

Examples of vaccination-related research topics include:

mRNA vaccines for viral infections

Biomaterial vaccination capabilities

Vaccination rates based on location, ethnicity, or age

Public opinion about vaccination safety 

Artificial tissues fabrication

With the need for donor organs increasing, finding ways to fabricate artificial bioactive tissues (and possibly organs) is a popular research area. 

Examples of artificial tissue-related research topics you can study include:

The viability of artificially printed tissues

Tissue substrate and building block material studies

The ethics and efficacy of artificial tissue creation

• Medical research topics for medical students

For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you’re a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from:

Sleep disorders

Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person’s overall health. 

Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics include:

How stress affects sleep quality

The prevalence and impact of insomnia on patients with mental health conditions

Possible triggers for sleep disorder development

The impact of poor sleep quality on psychological and physical health

How melatonin supplements impact sleep quality

Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise worldwide. They currently have no cure. As a result, research about these topics is in high demand. 

Examples of dementia-related research topics you could explore include:

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a chosen population

Early onset symptoms of dementia

Possible triggers or causes of cognitive decline with age

Treatment options for dementia-like conditions

The mental and physical burden of caregiving for patients with dementia

• Lifestyle habits and public health

Modern lifestyles have profoundly impacted the average person’s daily habits, and plenty of interesting topics explore its effects. 

Examples of lifestyle and public health-related research topics include:

The nutritional intake of college students

The impact of chronic work stress on overall health

The rise of upper back and neck pain from laptop use

Prevalence and cause of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

• Controversial medical research paper topics

Medical research is a hotbed of controversial topics, content, and areas of study. 

If you want to explore a more niche (and attention-grabbing) concept, here are some controversial medical research topics worth looking into:

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Depending on where you live, the legalization and use of cannabis for medical conditions is controversial for the general public and healthcare providers.

Examples of medical cannabis-related research topics that might grab your attention include:

The legalization process of medical cannabis

The impact of cannabis use on developmental milestones in youth users

Cannabis and mental health diagnoses

CBD’s impact on chronic pain

Prevalence of cannabis use in young people

The impact of maternal cannabis use on fetal development 

Understanding how THC impacts cognitive function

Human genetics

The Human Genome Project identified, mapped, and sequenced all human DNA genes. Its completion in 2003 opened up a world of exciting and controversial studies in human genetics.

Examples of human genetics-related research topics worth delving into include:

Medical genetics and the incidence of genetic-based health disorders

Behavioral genetics differences between identical twins

Genetic risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders

Machine learning technologies for genetic research

Sexual health studies

Human sexuality and sexual health are important (yet often stigmatized) medical topics that need new research and analysis.

As a diverse field ranging from sexual orientation studies to sexual pathophysiology, examples of sexual health-related research topics include:

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections within a chosen population

Mental health conditions within the LGBTQIA+ community

The impact of untreated sexually transmitted infections

Access to safe sex resources (condoms, dental dams, etc.) in rural areas

• Health and wellness research topics

Human wellness and health are trendy topics in modern medicine as more people are interested in finding natural ways to live healthier lifestyles. 

If this field of study interests you, here are some big topics in the wellness space:

Gluten sensitivity

Gluten allergies and intolerances have risen over the past few decades. If you’re interested in exploring this topic, your options range in severity from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to full-blown anaphylaxis. 

Some examples of gluten sensitivity-related research topics include:

The pathophysiology and incidence of Celiac disease

Early onset symptoms of gluten intolerance

The prevalence of gluten allergies within a set population

Gluten allergies and the incidence of other gastrointestinal health conditions

Pollution and lung health

Living in large urban cities means regular exposure to high levels of pollutants. 

As more people become interested in protecting their lung health, examples of impactful lung health and pollution-related research topics include:

The extent of pollution in densely packed urban areas

The prevalence of pollution-based asthma in a set population

Lung capacity and function in young people

The benefits and risks of steroid therapy for asthma

Pollution risks based on geographical location

Plant-based diets

Plant-based diets like vegan and paleo diets are emerging trends in healthcare due to their limited supporting research. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the potential benefits or risks of holistic, diet-based medicine, examples of plant-based diet research topics to explore include:

Vegan and plant-based diets as part of disease management

Potential risks and benefits of specific plant-based diets

Plant-based diets and their impact on body mass index

The effect of diet and lifestyle on chronic disease management

Health supplements

Supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry. Many health-conscious people take supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, and more. 

Examples of health supplement-related research topics worth investigating include:

Omega-3 fish oil safety and efficacy for cardiac patients

The benefits and risks of regular vitamin D supplementation

Health supplementation regulation and product quality

The impact of social influencer marketing on consumer supplement practices

Analyzing added ingredients in protein powders

• Healthcare research topics

Working within the healthcare industry means you have insider knowledge and opportunity. Maybe you’d like to research the overall system, administration, and inherent biases that disrupt access to quality care. 

While these topics are essential to explore, it is important to note that these studies usually require approval and oversight from an Institutional Review Board (IRB). This ensures the study is ethical and does not harm any subjects. 

For this reason, the IRB sets protocols that require additional planning, so consider this when mapping out your study’s timeline. 

Here are some examples of trending healthcare research areas worth pursuing:

The pros and cons of electronic health records

The rise of electronic healthcare charting and records has forever changed how medical professionals and patients interact with their health data. 

Examples of electronic health record-related research topics include:

The number of medication errors reported during a software switch

Nurse sentiment analysis of electronic charting practices

Ethical and legal studies into encrypting and storing personal health data

Inequities within healthcare access

Many barriers inhibit people from accessing the quality medical care they need. These issues result in health disparities and injustices. 

Examples of research topics about health inequities include:

The impact of social determinants of health in a set population

Early and late-stage cancer stage diagnosis in urban vs. rural populations

Affordability of life-saving medications

Health insurance limitations and their impact on overall health

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

People who belong to an ethnic minority are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions when trying to receive quality medical care. This is due to systemic healthcare racism and bias. 

As a result, diagnostic and treatment rates in minority populations are a hot-button field of research. Examples of ethnicity-based research topics include:

Cancer biopsy rates in BIPOC women

The prevalence of diabetes in Indigenous communities

Access inequalities in women’s health preventative screenings

The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in Black populations

• Pharmaceutical research topics

Large pharmaceutical companies are incredibly interested in investing in research to learn more about potential cures and treatments for diseases. 

If you’re interested in building a career in pharmaceutical research, here are a few examples of in-demand research topics:

Cancer treatment options

Clinical research is in high demand as pharmaceutical companies explore novel cancer treatment options outside of chemotherapy and radiation. 

Examples of cancer treatment-related research topics include:

Stem cell therapy for cancer

Oncogenic gene dysregulation and its impact on disease

Cancer-causing viral agents and their risks

Treatment efficacy based on early vs. late-stage cancer diagnosis

Cancer vaccines and targeted therapies

Immunotherapy for cancer

Pain medication alternatives

Historically, opioid medications were the primary treatment for short- and long-term pain. But, with the opioid epidemic getting worse, the need for alternative pain medications has never been more urgent. 

Examples of pain medication-related research topics include:

Opioid withdrawal symptoms and risks

Early signs of pain medication misuse

Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control

• Identify trends in your medical research with Dovetail

Are you interested in contributing life-changing research? Today’s medical research is part of the future of clinical patient care. 

As your go-to resource for speedy and accurate data analysis , we are proud to partner with healthcare researchers to innovate and improve the future of healthcare.

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151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024]

The important area of public health research is essential to forming laws, influencing medical procedures, and eventually enhancing community well-being. As we delve into the vast landscape of public health research topics, it’s essential to understand the profound impact they have on society.

This blog aims to provide a comprehensive guide to selecting and understanding the diverse array of public health research topics.

Overview of Public Health Research Topics

Table of Contents

Public health research encompasses a wide range of subjects, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field. From epidemiology and health policy to environmental health and infectious diseases, researchers navigate through various dimensions to address complex health challenges.

Each category holds its own significance, contributing to the overall understanding of public health dynamics.

Key Considerations in Selecting Public Health Research Topics

• Current Relevance: Assess the timeliness of potential topics by considering recent health trends, emerging issues, and societal concerns.
• Impact on Public Health: Evaluate the potential impact of the research on improving health outcomes, addressing disparities, or influencing policy and interventions.
• Feasibility and Resources: Gauge the practicality of conducting research on a particular topic, considering available resources, data accessibility, and research infrastructure.
• Ethical Considerations: Scrutinize the ethical implications of the research, ensuring it aligns with ethical standards and guidelines, especially when dealing with vulnerable populations or sensitive topics.

Top 151+ Public Health Research Topics

Epidemiology.

• The Impact of Social Determinants on Disease Outcomes
• Patterns and Trends in Emerging Infectious Diseases
• Investigating Health Disparities among Different Ethnic Groups
• Childhood Obesity and its Long-Term Health Consequences
• Assessing the Effectiveness of Contact Tracing in Disease Control

Health Policy

• Universal Healthcare: Comparative Analysis of Global Models
• The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Healthcare Access
• Evaluating Mental Health Policies and Their Impact on Communities
• Assessing the Impact of Affordable Care Act on Public Health
• Vaccine Policies and Public Perception: A Comprehensive Study

Environmental Health

• Climate Change and Health: Adapting to the Challenges
• Air Quality and Respiratory Health in Urban Environments
• Waterborne Diseases and Strategies for Safe Water Supply
• Occupational Health Hazards: A Comprehensive Workplace Analysis
• The Impact of Green Spaces on Mental Health in Urban Areas

Infectious Diseases

• Antimicrobial Resistance: Strategies for Mitigation
• Vaccination Strategies and Herd Immunity
• Global Health Security: Preparedness for Pandemics
• The Impact of Vector-Borne Diseases on Public Health
• Emerging Trends in Antibiotic-Resistant Infections

Chronic Diseases

• Lifestyle Interventions for Preventing Cardiovascular Diseases
• Genetic Factors in the Development of Cancer: A Comprehensive Study
• Aging and Health: Addressing the Healthcare Needs of the Elderly
• Diabetes Prevention Programs: Efficacy and Implementation
• Mental Health in Chronic Disease Patients: Bridging the Gap

Maternal and Child Health

• Maternal Mortality: Understanding Causes and Prevention
• The Impact of Breastfeeding on Infant Health and Development
• Childhood Immunization: Barriers and Strategies for Improvement
• Teenage Pregnancy and Its Long-Term Health Consequences
• Mental Health Support for Postpartum Women: Current Gaps and Solutions

Health Behavior and Promotion

• Smoking Cessation Programs: Effectiveness and Challenges
• Physical Activity Promotion in Schools: Strategies for Success
• Nutrition Education and Its Impact on Healthy Eating Habits
• Mental Health Awareness Campaigns: Assessing Public Perceptions
• The Role of Social Media in Health Promotion

Global Health

• Assessing the Impact of International Aid on Global Health
• Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Programs in Developing Countries
• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Global Health
• Communicable Disease Control in Refugee Populations
• Global Access to Essential Medicines: Challenges and Solutions

Community Health

• Community-Based Participatory Research: Best Practices and Challenges
• The Impact of Community Health Workers on Health Outcomes
• Health Literacy and its Relationship to Health Disparities
• Assessing the Effectiveness of Mobile Health (mHealth) Interventions
• Community Resilience in the Face of Public Health Crises

Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety

• Hospital-Acquired Infections: Strategies for Prevention
• Patient Safety Culture in Healthcare Organizations
• Quality Improvement Initiatives in Primary Care Settings
• Healthcare Accreditation: Impact on Patient Outcomes
• Implementing Electronic Health Records: Challenges and Benefits

Mental Health

• Stigma Reduction Programs for Mental Health Disorders
• Integrating Mental Health into Primary Care Settings
• The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health: Long-Term Implications
• Mental Health in the Workplace: Strategies for Employee Well-being
• Suicide Prevention Programs: Effectiveness and Outreach

Health Disparities

• Racial Disparities in Healthcare: Addressing Systemic Inequities
• LGBTQ+ Health Disparities and Inclusive Healthcare Practices
• Socioeconomic Status and Access to Healthcare Services
• Geographical Disparities in Health: Rural vs. Urban
• The Impact of Gender on Health Outcomes and Access to Care

Public Health Education

• Evaluation of Public Health Education Programs
• Innovative Approaches to Teaching Public Health Concepts
• Online Health Education Platforms: Opportunities and Challenges
• Interdisciplinary Training in Public Health: Bridging Gaps
• Continuing Education for Public Health Professionals: Current Landscape

Digital Health

• The Role of Wearable Devices in Health Monitoring
• Telehealth Adoption: Barriers and Opportunities
• Health Apps for Chronic Disease Management: User Perspectives
• Blockchain Technology in Healthcare: Privacy and Security Implications
• Artificial Intelligence in Disease Diagnosis and Prediction

Health Economics

• Cost-Effectiveness of Preventive Health Interventions
• The Impact of Healthcare Financing Models on Access to Care
• Pharmaceutical Pricing and Access to Essential Medicines
• Economic Evaluation of Health Promotion Programs
• Health Insurance Coverage and Health Outcomes: A Global Perspective

Innovations in Public Health

• 3D Printing in Healthcare: Applications and Future Prospects
• Gene Editing Technologies and their Ethical Implications
• Smart Cities and Public Health: Integrating Technology for Well-being
• Nanotechnology in Medicine: Potential for Disease Treatment
• The Role of Drones in Public Health: Surveillance and Intervention

Food Safety and Nutrition

• Foodborne Illness Outbreaks: Investigating Causes and Prevention
• Sustainable Food Systems: Implications for Public Health
• Nutritional Interventions for Malnutrition in Developing Countries
• Food Labeling and Consumer Understanding: A Critical Review
• The Impact of Fast Food Consumption on Public Health

Substance Abuse

• Opioid Epidemic: Strategies for Prevention and Treatment
• Harm Reduction Approaches in Substance Abuse Programs
• Alcohol Consumption Patterns and Public Health Outcomes
• Smoking and Mental Health: Exploring the Connection
• Novel Psychoactive Substances: Emerging Threats and Strategies

Occupational Health

• Workplace Stress and Mental Health: Intervention Strategies
• Occupational Hazards in Healthcare Professions: A Comparative Analysis
• Ergonomics in the Workplace: Improving Worker Health and Productivity
• Night Shift Work and Health Consequences: Addressing Challenges
• Occupational Health and Safety Regulations: A Global Overview

Disaster Preparedness and Response

• Pandemic Preparedness and Lessons from COVID-19
• Natural Disasters and Mental Health: Post-Traumatic Stress
• Emergency Response Systems: Improving Timeliness and Efficiency
• Communicating Health Risks During Emergencies: Public Perception
• Collaborative Approaches to Disaster Response in Global Health

Cancer Research

• Precision Medicine in Cancer Treatment: Current Advancements
• Cancer Screening Programs: Efficacy and Challenges
• Environmental Factors and Cancer Risk: Exploring Connections
• Survivorship Care Plans: Enhancing Quality of Life after Cancer
• Integrative Therapies in Cancer Care: Complementary Approaches

Sexual and Reproductive Health

• Access to Contraception in Developing Countries: Challenges and Solutions
• Comprehensive Sex Education Programs: Impact on Teen Pregnancy
• Reproductive Health Rights: Global Perspectives and Challenges
• Infertility Treatment: Ethical Considerations and Societal Impact
• Maternal and Child Health in Conflict Zones: Addressing Challenges

Cardiovascular Health

• Hypertension Prevention Programs: Strategies and Effectiveness
• Cardiovascular Disease in Women: Gender-Specific Risk Factors
• Innovations in Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs
• Artificial Heart Technology: Advancements and Ethical Implications
• Impact of Air Pollution on Cardiovascular Health: A Global Concern

Social Determinants of Health

• Educational Attainment and Health Outcomes: Exploring Links
• Income Inequality and its Impact on Population Health
• Social Support Networks and Mental Health: A Comprehensive Study
• Neighborhood Environments and Health Disparities
• Employment and Health: The Interplay of Work and Well-being

Genomics and Public Health

• Population Genomics and its Implications for Public Health
• Genetic Counseling and Education: Empowering Individuals and Families
• Ethical Issues in Genetic Research: Privacy and Informed Consent
• Pharmacogenomics: Tailoring Drug Therapies to Individual Genotypes
• Gene-Environment Interactions in Disease Risk: Unraveling Complexities

Public Health Ethics

• Informed Consent in Public Health Research: Current Practices
• Ethical Challenges in Global Health Research: Balancing Priorities
• Confidentiality in Public Health Reporting: Striking the Right Balance
• Research with Vulnerable Populations: Ethical Considerations
• Ethical Implications of Emerging Technologies in Healthcare

Health Communication

• The Role of Media in Shaping Public Health Perceptions
• Health Literacy Interventions: Improving Understanding of Health Information
• Social Media Campaigns for Public Health Promotion: Best Practices
• Tailoring Health Messages for Diverse Audiences: Cultural Competency
• Risk Communication in Public Health Emergencies: Lessons Learned

Nutrigenomics

• Personalized Nutrition Plans based on Genetic Makeup
• Impact of Nutrigenomics on Chronic Disease Prevention
• Ethical Considerations in Nutrigenomics Research
• Public Perceptions of Nutrigenomic Testing: A Qualitative Study
• Integrating Nutrigenomics into Public Health Policies

Public Health and Artificial Intelligence

• Predictive Analytics in Disease Surveillance: Harnessing AI for Early Detection
• Ethical Considerations in AI-Driven Health Decision Support Systems
• Machine Learning in Epidemiology: Predicting Disease Outbreaks
• Natural Language Processing in Public Health: Text Mining for Insights
• Bias in AI Algorithms: Implications for Health Equity

Health Disparities in Aging

• Geriatric Health Disparities: Bridging the Gap in Elderly Care
• Ageism in Healthcare: Addressing Stereotypes and Discrimination
• Social Isolation and Health Consequences in Aging Populations
• Access to Palliative Care for Older Adults: A Global Perspective
• Alzheimer’s Disease and Ethnic Disparities in Diagnosis and Treatment
• Loneliness and Mental Health in the Elderly: Interventions and Support

Research Methodologies in Public Health

Public health research employs various methodologies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches. Each method brings its own strengths to the research process, allowing researchers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues they investigate. 

Community-based participatory research is another valuable approach, emphasizing collaboration with communities to address their specific health concerns.

Challenges and Opportunities in Public Health Research

While public health research is immensely rewarding, it comes with its own set of challenges. Funding constraints, ethical dilemmas, the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of technology pose both obstacles and opportunities. 

Researchers must navigate these challenges to ensure their work has a meaningful impact on public health.

In conclusion, public health research topics are diverse and dynamic, reflecting the complex nature of the field. As researchers embark on their journeys, they must carefully consider the relevance, impact, and ethical implications of their chosen topics. 

The collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of public health research positions it as a powerful tool in addressing the health challenges of our time. By exploring the depths of these topics, researchers contribute to the collective effort to build healthier and more equitable communities. 

As we move forward, a continued exploration of relevant public health research topics is essential for shaping the future of healthcare and improving the well-being of populations worldwide.

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Special Topics in Health Information Privacy

HIPAA and COVID-19

During the COVID-19 national emergency, which also constitutes a nationwide public health emergency, the HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has provided guidance that helps explain how the HIPAA Privacy Rule allows patient information to be shared in the outbreak of infectious disease and to assist patients in receiving the care they need.

HIPAA and Reproductive Health

OCR has issued guidance on the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule (Privacy Rule) and the privacy of individuals’ protected health Information (PHI) relating to abortion and other sexual and reproductive health care.

HIPAA and Telehealth

OCR has issued guidance about telehealth and the privacy and security of individuals’ protected health information. The guidance materials address how covered entities can provide audio-only telehealth in compliance with the HIPAA Rules. They also clarify how OCR is applying the Notification of Enforcement Discretion for Telehealth Remote Communications to support the good faith provision of telehealth during the COVID-19 nationwide public health emergency.

Updated Joint Guidance on Application of HIPAA and FERPA to Student Health Records

The U.S. Department of Education and the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued joint guidance addressing the application of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy Rule to records maintained on students.

Mental Health & Substance Use Disorders

At times, health care providers need to share mental and behavioral health information to enhance patient treatment and to ensure the health and safety of the patient or others. Parents, friends, and other caregivers of individuals with a mental health condition or substance use disorder play an important role in supporting the patient's treatment, care coordination, and recovery. The HIPAA Rules are designed to protect the privacy of all of an individuals' identifiable health information and to ensure that health information is available when needed for treatment and other appropriate purposes. Given the sensitive nature of mental health and substance use disorder treatment information, OCR provides guidance addressing HIPAA protections, the obligations of covered health care providers, and the circumstances in which covered providers can share information—as applied to this context.

Public Health

Emergency Situations: Preparedness, Planning, and Response

Health Information Technology

Health information technology (health IT) involves the exchange of health information in an electronic environment.  Widespread use of health IT will improve the quality of health care, prevent medical errors, reduce health care costs, increase administrative efficiencies, decrease paperwork, and expand access to affordable health care.  It is imperative that the privacy and security of health information be ensured as this information is maintained and transmitted electronically. The Privacy Rule's established baseline of privacy protections and individual rights with respect to individually identifiable health information support the use of health IT and provide important protections in this area. The Security Rule supports the adoption of new health information technologies while setting standards to ensure appropriate protection of electronic protected health information.

HIPAA and Health Apps

OCR offers guidance for developers and others seeking more information about how the HIPAA Rules might apply to health applications, as well as a health app developer portal  with Health App Use Scenarios and an opportunity to engage with OCR on issues and concerns related to protecting health information privacy in mHealth design and development.

Certification of Health IT

Health information technology advisory committee (hitac), health equity, hti-1 final rule.

• Information Blocking

Interoperability

Patient access to health records, clinical quality and safety, health it and health information exchange basics, health it in health care settings, health it resources, laws, regulation, and policy, onc funding opportunities, onc hitech programs, privacy, security, and hipaa, scientific initiatives, standards & technology, usability and provider burden.

The ONC Health IT Certification Program provides assurance to purchasers and other users that a system meets the technological capability, functionality, and security requirements adopted by HHS.

Effective use of health IT helps make the right information available to the right people at the right time, which can improve clinical quality and safety

• Measuring Results,
• Prioritizing Improvements, and
• Implementing and Monitoring Results

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC) contractors and grantees play a valuable role in helping promote better health care for Americans by encouraging the use of health IT.

We invite you to learn more about how to work with ONC.

Learn the Basics of Health IT and Health Information Exchange. Topics in this section include:

• Benefits of Electronic Health Records (EHRS)
• Case Studies about Health IT Implementation
• Glossary of common Health IT terms

ONC supports many health IT initiatives to drive broader understanding of the role health IT in improving care, supporting providers and empowering patients. These initiatives include:

Health It Resources

This section includes:

• The Health IT Playbook which provides tools to providers who are implementing health IT
• Consumer resources including Blue Button
• Million Hearts

The Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC), established in the 21st Century Cures Act (P.L. 114-255), provides recommendations to the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, policies, standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria, relating to the implementation of a health information technology infrastructure, nationally and locally, that advances the electronic access, exchange, and use of health information.

International Health IT Collaborations

Health IT is a global issue that is relevant across borders. With that in mind, HHS and ONC have continued to engage in collaborative agreements with our international partners in order to share ideas and ultimately learn from each other to provide the best digital health environment possible for everyone.

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC) is responsible for advancing connectivity and interoperability of health information technology (health IT). Interoperable health IT is vital utilizing health IT to improve care.

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC) supports the nationwide implementation of health IT, partially through its programs that target a range of issues, from promoting health IT excellence in communities to fostering collaboration among federal agencies.

Patient Access to Medical Records

Patient engagement can have big benefits for your practice and your patients: better communication, better care, and better outcomes. Health information technology (health IT) is a powerful tool to help you get there — so learn how to make it work for you.

Health information technology promises a number of potential benefits for individuals, health care providers, and the nation’s health care system.

It has the ability to advance clinical care, improve population health, and reduce costs. At the same time, this environment also poses new challenges and opportunities for protecting individually identifiable health information.

Scientific Initatives

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) conducts projects that leverage the existing health IT investment to support the biomedical and health services research enterprise.  In addition, ONC coordinates related health IT policy and programs with key federal and private sector stakeholders such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) promotes the adoption and use of standards and technologies that allow health information to be shared electronically between clinicians, patients, researchers, and others with the authorization to the access the information. By promoting this ability to share information, often referred to as “interoperability,” ONC aims to promote better care for patients, encourage stronger patient engagement in their own care, and lay the foundation for important new health initiatives, including the Precision Medicine Initiative .

Electronic health record (EHR) adoption is now approaching 100% in many settings, and as adoption increases so does concern surrounding satisfaction with the user experience. A number of initiatives are underway to improve security, reliability, and patient safety by focusing on improving EHR usability.

Learn about health IT laws and regulations about:

• Health IT Polices
• Meaningful Use and MACRA

Open Survey

Health Information Administration Research Guide

• How to Use this Guide
• Research health information management topics
• Research medical/disease topics
• Introduction to Research in HIA / HIM
• Evaluate health/medical information
• Get Full Text
• Search Techniques
• HIM 150 activities
• HIM150 videos

Introduction

This page will lead you to sources for finding credible information on health information management., continue below for these four (4) sections:.

• Find in-depth information in monographs (books) and find non-print material such as videos, audios, software, and multimedia .
• Find current information in magazine and journal articles and reports.
• Find federal and state rules and regulations, statutory law, and case law .

Find definitions, facts, statistics

Find in-depth information in monographs (books) and find non-print material such as videos, audios, software, and multimedia, find books and e-books with the following research databases. .

The first research database will also lead to video and audio materials.

• Bookshelf Growing collection of biomedical books that can be searched directly by typing a concept into the search box. Much of the content is accessible online. Bookshelf is provided by the U.S. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Searches of PubMed include the material in Bookshelf.

Find current information in magazine and journal articles and reports

Search for articles & reports using the following databases or websites..

SPECIAL NOTE: Not every health database will index the key journals for health information management. Your key professional journal Journal of AHIMA and other core professional journals (for example, Joint Commission Perspectives and Hospitals and Health Networks ) may be found by searching PubMed .

• Medline Plus This link opens in a new window MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). PubMed citations and abstracts include the fields of biomedicine and health, covering portions of the life sciences, behavioral sciences, chemical sciences, and bioengineering. PubMed citations often include links to the full-text article on the publishers' Web sites and/or in PubMed Central and the Bookshelf. [MEDLINE is the largest subset of PubMed. You may limit your PubMed search retrieval to MEDLINE citations by restricting your search to the MeSH controlled vocabulary or by using the Journal Categories filter called MEDLINE.]
• AHIMA publications online Web site provides access to articles and reports in "Journal of AHIMA" (including practice briefs, coding notes, plugged in, etc.) and other AHIMA publications. NOTE: Explore the "HIM Trends and Topics" tab at top
• CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) Web site provides statistics, reports and regulatory news (including links to rules & proposed rules in Federal Register) on Medicare, Medicaid & Child Health Insurance Programs. CMS is the federal agency that administers the Medicare, Medicaid and Child Health Insurance Programs.For regulations for different types of facilities such as Ambulatory Surgical, Home Health Agencies, etc., link to "Regulations and Guidance" and scan down to find the section "Provider Type."
• Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 18,000 health care organizations in the United States, including hospitals, health care networks, managed care organizations, and health care organizations that provide home care, long term care, behavioral health care, laboratory, and ambulatory care services. It publishes standards, etc.

Find federal and state rules and regulations, statutory law, and case law.

Find legal information  .

To successfully find legal information, you will need to select research databases and sources appropriate for finding the legal information you need.  This means choosing a resource that provides the correct:

1. category of law ( regulatory , judicial , or statutory )

• Regulatory law = rules and regulations developed by governmental agencies and departments in order for them to carry out the laws passed by legislatures.
• Judicial law = case law, that is laws arising from decisions made in courts.
• Statutory law = laws enacted by legislatures.

2. level of government ( federal or state )

Links to these legal research tools are further below :

For Federal REGULATIONS , use the following:

• Code of Federal Regulations
• Federal Register . 
• LexisNexis Academic includes the content of both the Code of Federal Regulations and the Federal Register.  Use the "search by content type" dropdown menu to select "Federal Statutes & Regulations."
• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website provides links to health care regulatory information published in the Federal Register and elsewhere.  On the CMS website, choose "Regulations & Guidance."

For State REGULATIONS , use the following:

• LexisNexis Academic includes the content of South Dakota Administrative Rules and South Dakota Register .  In LexisNexis use the "search by content type" dropdown menu to select "State Statutes & Regulations."
• Legislative Research Council of the South Dakota Legislature.  For rules and regulations, choose "Administrative Rules" and find rules using either the "Rules Search" or "Rules List."

For Federal CASE LAW , use:

• LexisNexis Academic . Use the "search by content type" dropdown menu to select "Federal & State Cases"

For State CASE LAW , use:

For Federal STATUTORY LAW , use: 

• LexisNexis Academic . Use the "search by content type" dropdown menu to select "Federal Statutes & Regulations." {Note: statutory laws may be found as "Public Laws" (that is, found by public law number which is a consecutive numbering system of laws during a given legislative session) or in the "U.S. Code" (that is, found in the codified laws in which laws related to a particular topic are grouped together}.

For State STATUTORY LAW , use:

• LexisNexis Academic . Use the "search by content type" dropdown menu to select "State Statutes & Regulations."
• Legislative Research Council of the South Dakota Legislature.  For statutory law, choose "Laws."
• Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) The CFR codifies (arranges numerically) the detailed rules and regulations used for carrying out the laws passed by the U. S. Congress. These regulations are devised by federal departments and agencies. So, the CFR is a comprehensive collection of all the rules and regulations in effect in the various agencies of the U.S. Government. Rules first appear in the daily publication called the Federal Register. After being finalized, they are incorporated into the CFR. Therefore, after searching the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), search the Federal Register for any new or changed federal rules that have not yet been added to the CFR.
• Federal Register (FR) Use the Federal Register (FR) to find new federal regulations that have been proposed or that have been published in final form in the Federal Register but have not yet been added to the Code of Federal Regulations. Rules and regulations are devised by federal departments and agencies to carry out the laws passed by the U.S. Congress. FR provides the text of proposed, final, interim, and temporary rules and is published daily, Monday - Friday. Provided by the U.S. Government Printing Office.
• Legislative Research Council (South Dakota) The Legislative Research Council of the South Dakota Legislature provides administrative rules and statutory laws. For rules and regulations, choose "Administrative Rules" and find rules using either the "Rules Search" or "Rules List." For statutory law, choose "Laws."

Statistics and Other Information about Hospitals and Physicians

The following sources provide a range of factual information and statistics about hospitals and physicians

• Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Has a "Research Tools & Data" section that includes MEPS (Medical Expenditure Panel Survey), HCUP (Healthcare Cost & Utilization Project), HCUPnet ( Interactive Tool for Hospital Statistics), HIV & AIDS Costs & Use, and more. HCUPnet is a tool for identifying, tracking, analyzing, and comparing statistics on hospitals at the national, regional, and State level. AHRQ is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
• AMA Doctor Finder This directory contains information on virtually every licensed physician in the United States (and its possessions), including more than 650,000 doctors of medicine (MD) and doctors of osteopathy or osteopathic medicine (DO). All physician credential data have been verified for accuracy and authenticated by accrediting agencies, medical schools, residency training programs, licensing and certifying boards, and other data sources.
• American Board of Medical Specialties This directory may be used to verify the certification status of any physician certified by one or more of the 24 member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Click on "Is Your Doctor Certified."
• HRET: Health Research & Educational Trust Provides information about hospitals, health care agencies, quality/cost/disparities, data analysis, payment reform, and much more.
• National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) NCHS is the primary Federal organization responsible for the collection, analyses, and dissemination of health statistics. The intent of this site is to provide users access to the health information that NCHS produces.

PRINT SOURCES IN LIBRARY:

• AHA Hospital Statistics Call Number: RA981.A2 A6234 Publication Date: annual This is a compilation of data compiled from AHA Annual Survey of Hospitals and is a print book in the Mundt Library. Note: Distance students may request the Library to copy and email specific sections.
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• Last Updated: Apr 10, 2024 2:49 PM
• URL: https://library.dsu.edu/him

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Conference Facilitates Talk on Hot Topics in Health Policy and Management

From artificial intelligence to alternative medicine and quality care to communications: the annual Health Policy and Management (HPM) Healthcare Conference was a sounding board for ideas on all manner of timely issues affecting organizational leaders, policymakers, and not least, everyone at the receiving end of health care services.  The all-day event on April 12 brought together faculty, students, policymakers, and industry leaders. The event was sponsored by The Commonwealth Fund and held at Columbia University event space The Forum.

Sherry Glied, Dean of New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and former HPM chair, opened the conference with a keynote address on the future of healthcare in New York State and beyond. Glied, who chairs the New York State Commission of the Future of Healthcare, said her goal was to recommit the state to measuring success through “the health and well-being of individual people.”

A morning panel titled  Communicating Topics in Public Health Effectively  shed light on strategies to convey health information to the public despite the challenging political environment. HPM Professor Robert Shepardson moderated the panel, which included White House Assistant Press Secretary Kevin Munoz, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategic Planning and Speechwriter for U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Brian Reich, and Environmental Health Sciences Professor Julie Herbstman . When asked why communications is important, Herbstman, who is director of Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health noted, “I love working with data, but the reason I’m doing public health research is so that it goes somewhere, it has some kind of impact. My job isn’t done when I publish a paper.”

Afternoon sessions covered topics including food justice, developments in alternative medicine, PEPFAR reauthorization, and a lunch salon focused on digital health. The latter discussion was led by HPM student Andera Marx, senior marketing manager at Amazon Health Services and senior product marketing manager at One Medical.

The closing panel considered the deployment of AI in healthcare and what that could mean for equitable access to services. Columbia Mailman Biostatistics Professor and Associate Dean for Data Science Jeff Goldsmith moderated the event, which included panelists Julia Iyasere, director of the Dalio Center of Health Justice; Ashley Beecy, medical director of AI Operations at NewYork-Presbyterian; and physician-strategist Rebecca Winkour.

The day concluded with a networking reception and panel for admitted students led by current master’s students. Amey Kamdar, MHA ’24, appreciated how the conference brought together providers, researchers, policymakers, and students, adding, “That made for great dialogue and broadening of horizons.” HPM Chair and Professor of Health Policy and Management Michael Sparer echoed Kamdar’s comments, saying, “This is a special day where we come together once a year and we hear great talks, but we also have an opportunity to network and be with each other.”

Putting science to work for the health of women

Advancing Women’s Health Research: From Policy to Action

Advancing women’s health research: from policy to action , by dr. janine a. clayton.

White House Actions to Advance Women’s Health Research

On March 18, 2024, President Joe Biden signed a new Executive Order (EO) that builds upon the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research . The EO outlined strategies to improve women’s health research by integrating women’s health across the federal research portfolio, prioritizing funding, galvanizing new research on women’s midlife health, and assessing areas needing further support. ORWH Deputy Director Vivian Ota Wang, Ph.D., and I were honored to attend the historic signing, alongside NIH Director Monica Bertagnolli, M.D., and Deputy Director for Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives Tara A. Schwetz, Ph.D., and other NIH leaders. A key aspect of this initiative was the announcement of a new NIH-wide effort to invest $200 million in Fiscal Year 2025 specifically for interdisciplinary women’s health research. This substantial investment is aligned with the administration’s commitment to advancing our understanding of women’s health issues and developing targeted interventions and treatments.  

As part of the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and I visited Research Triangle Park, home to North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, to promote the EO, specifically focusing on challenges women face in midlife like menopause and heart disease. Our collaborative efforts with renowned institutions and health care professionals emphasized the need to address disparities in health care, advocating for innovative research and health care solutions that prioritize women’s health.

Moreover, in alignment with the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, ORWH issued a NIH-wide Notice of Special Interest to highlight interest in receiving research applications focused on diseases and health conditions that predominantly affect women (e.g., autoimmune diseases, depressive disorders, Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease-related dementias, gender-based violence), present and progress differently in women (e.g., cardiovascular disease, HIV, reproductive aging and its implications), or are female specific (e.g., uterine fibroids, endometriosis, menopause). I strongly encourage applications incorporate an intersectional and/or multidimensional approach to gender-related social and structural variables, including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and state and federal policies.  

Dr. Elizabeth Barr Named Associate Director for Interdisciplinary Research

Congratulations to Elizabeth Barr, Ph.D. on being named Associate Director for Interdisciplinary Research at ORWH. Dr. Barr joined ORWH in 2019, where she has coordinated efforts to advance intersectional health research on gender as a social and structural variable, managed the ORWH interprofessional education program, and led efforts to advance HIV research for women. Dr. Barr’s background is in gender and women’s studies, community-led HIV research, and reproductive justice. Dr. Barr completed her Ph.D. in communications, with training in science and technology studies, at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and her M.S. in women’s and gender studies at Towson University. Prior to joining ORWH, Dr. Barr led interdisciplinary, cross-sector projects to increase women’s engagement in clinical research and served on the faculties of Towson University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Dr. Barr is widely respected in the field of interdisciplinary research as demonstrated by her accomplishments above, and we look forward to her continued contributions to ORWH!

Advisory Committee on Research on Women’s Health  

The 60th Meeting of the NIH Advisory Committee on Research on Women's Health (ACRWH), held on April 12, 2024, provided a forum for ACRWH members to give guidance and make recommendations on priority issues affecting women's health and sex differences research. Carolyn Mazure, Ph.D., White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research chair, provided an insightful update on the White House Women’s Health Research Initiative. Dawn Corbett, M.P.H., NIH inclusion policy officer, Office of Extramural Research, presented a comprehensive inclusion update on NIH clinical research. The event hosted a robust panel titled Middle-Life Health of Women and Menopause, of expert researchers that discussed how menopause can affect the health of women. The Office of Disease Prevention will host a Pathways to Prevention (P2P) workshop in 2025 to identify research gaps in the menopausal tradition and to promote well-being through midlife and beyond. Visit the ACRWH event page for the videocast recording.

HIV & Women Scientific Workshop

In March 2024, the NIH Office of AIDS Research (OAR) and ORWH hosted a two-day virtual workshop to review the state of the science on HIV and women and inform the future research agenda. The workshop, which is part of the OAR-ORWH joint HIV and Women Signature Program , featured a diverse array of HIV-related topics of relevance to women, girls, and gender-diverse people, including prevention, treatment, cure, and social and structural determinants of health. Aligned with the signature program’s focus on intersectional, data-driven, and equity-informed approaches to HIV and women, the workshop included community members on the organizing committee and community speakers on every panel. We were also happy to feature work from established and emerging investigators, highlighting opportunities for ongoing collaborations and connections. Over 700 people watched the workshop live, and it is archived via videocast for viewing on-demand.

National Minority Health Month

April marks National Minority Health Month (NMHM), a time to raise awareness about the importance of improving the health of racial and ethnic minority communities and reducing health disparities. The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities celebrated this month with a series of events, including a Minority Health Walk, Run, Roll 5K and a Fireside Chat featuring the Honorable Louis W. Sullivan, M.D. Additionally, the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health (OMH) has emphasized this year’s theme, “Be the Source for Better Health: Improving Health Outcomes Through Our Cultures, Communities, and Connections,” focusing on understanding how the unique environments, cultures, histories, and circumstances (known as social determinants of health) of racial and ethnic minority and American Indian and Alaska Native populations impact their overall health. I encourage you to learn more about health equity by using the resources made available online by OMH.

As we commemorate NMHM, I look forward to the upcoming release of the Health of Women of U3 Populations Data Book. This resource holds immense promise in offering valuable insights into the complex interplay of cultural, racial, socioeconomic, and geographical factors that can influence the health status of women. By highlighting the challenges these communities face, this data book emphasizes the urgent need for equitable health care practices to promote health equity for all.

Black Maternal Health Week

This year, we observed Black Maternal Health Week from April 11 to 17. This week serves as a crucial platform to spotlight and address the disparities in health outcomes experienced by Black mothers. Research and data have consistently shown stark racial and ethnic disparities in maternal mortality rates, with Non-Hispanic Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, Black or African American, American Indian, and Alaska Native women facing mortality rates two to four times higher than Non-Hispanic White women in pregnancy-related causes. Recognizing the urgent need for action, the Health Resources and Services Administration Maternal and Child Health Bureau has spearheaded a comprehensive campaign during Black Maternal Health Week aimed at raising awareness, fostering meaningful action, and advocating for positive change in Black maternal health. In response to the disparate maternal mortality rates, the IMPROVE initiative was developed to support research on how to reduce preventable maternal mortality, decrease severe maternal morbidity, and promote health equity. Central to this effort is a toolkit featuring a range of resources strategically designed to empower individuals and organizations, providing them with the tools necessary to amplify their initiatives, forge collaborations, and celebrate achievements in the ongoing quest for equitable maternal health care for Black mothers. It is imperative these efforts continue beyond this designated week, fostering sustained awareness, advocacy, and policy changes to ensure lasting improvements in Black maternal health outcomes.

Looking Forward

In line with ORWH’s mission to advance women in science careers, we launched a prize competition aimed at enhancing gender diversity among faculty members in higher education. This initiative underscores our commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering transformative change. The resulting NIH Prize for Enhancing Faculty Gender Diversity in Biomedical and Behavioral Science has not only encouraged innovative strategies but has also led to the development of a toolkit. This toolkit highlights best practices and links them with evidence of their impact, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation. For more information on how the toolkit was developed, click here .

Looking ahead, ORWH is excited to celebrate National Women’s Health Week by hosting the 8th Annual Vivian W. Pinn Symposium and the first ever NIH Women’s Health Roundtable event. The Vivian W. Pinn Symposium honors the first full-time director of the office, Vivian W. Pinn, M.D., and serves as a critical forum for experts across sectors to communicate and collaborate for the advancement of women’s health. The roundtable “ Future Directions in Menopause Research: Optimizing Midlife Health of Women ,” is scheduled for May 16, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. EDT. This event serves as the launch for the NIH Women’s Health Roundtable Series as part of the White House Women’s Health Research Initiative. The series will engage the extramural research community to bring greater awareness to female-specific health conditions, as well as diseases and conditions that present differently in women. I encourage all researchers, health care professionals, policymakers, and advocates to join us at this impactful roundtable as we collaborate to foster transformative discoveries and interventions in women's health. Your participation and insights are invaluable in driving positive change and advancing our collective mission to shape the future of women’s health research and improve outcomes for women.

The recent initiatives and collaborative efforts serve as a catalyst for continuous dialogue, innovation, and enhancing research. As we navigate the intricate landscape of health care disparities and societal complexities, ORWH’s commitment remains unwavering—to expand and accelerate women’s health research initiatives that generate new data and discoveries which will promote health equity. Together, we strive to create a future where health outcomes are improved for all populations of women, paving the way for more equitable, inclusive health care for everyone.

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Global Health and Warfare: Assessing the Broad Impacts of Conflict on Public Health

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About this Research Topic

In contemporary wars, international conventions are regularly violated, for example, the number of civilians who are victims of wars is vastly greater than the number of military personnel. To provide a numerical dimension, according to the Oxford Handbook of Ethics of War, there has been 14,600 wars in human history, of which 3,200 were large. In 2021 alone there were 46 armed conflicts going on around the world, including three with more than 10,000 deaths per year (in Yemen, Afghanistan, and Myanmar) with a total of 120,000 deaths, or a 13 percent increase over 2020. In Iraq since the beginning of the war in 2003, between 180,000 and 200,000 civilians have died, while in Afghanistan since 2001 the total deaths-including civilians-have been about 900,000. Needless to mention wars leave a very heavy legacy: in Syria for example, life expectancy has been reduced by 20 years after the conflict. In addition to immediate deaths and injuries, vast populations are affected through displacement, access to food, water, and sanitation, maternal and child mortality, mental health as well as a total collapse of healthcare systems. We invite submissions that examine the following key areas: • Victim Count Accuracy: Delving into the methodologies for accurately counting war victims amidst biased information systems used by conflicting parties. • Long-Term Health Outcomes: Exploring the long-term health consequences of war on both civilians and military personnel, including psychological impacts and healthcare system collapses. • Preventative Strategies: Discussing the role of public health in conflict prevention and management, linking to broader peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. • Global Influence of Local Conflicts: Investigating how conflicts contribute to the spread of infectious diseases beyond their epicenters, influenced by refugee movements and disrupted public health infrastructures. This research will enhance understanding of global health security and inform pandemic preparedness. • Resource Diversion from Health to Defense: Analyzing the impact of reallocating national and international resources from healthcare to defense. Contributions should explore how such shifts affect health promotion and the well-being of populations at both local and global levels. • Healthcare in Conflict Settings: Evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of health interventions in conflict zones, focusing on pragmatic approaches in nutrition, hygiene, and emergency medical services. This includes assessing the challenges and outcomes of implementing these "second-best" solutions due to resource constraints. We welcome diverse submissions including Original Research, Study Protocol, Opinion, and Policy Briefs. Each manuscript should aim to contribute meaningful insights that drive policy change and enhance public health strategies in and beyond conflict zones. A carefully selected team of Topic Editors will ensure that discussions remain respectful and scientifically grounded, avoiding politicization and ensuring relevance to public health. We commit to linguistic sensitivity, especially when referencing specific conflicts, and offer waivers to encourage broad participation without negative repercussions. This Research Topic aims to foster a deeper understanding of the extensive public health impacts of war, encouraging a multidisciplinary approach to solving one of the most pressing issues of our time. We look forward to contributions that not only describe challenges but also propose innovative solutions for health in times of conflict.

Keywords : global health, warfare, conflict, public health, victim count accuracy, long-term health outcomes, preventative strategies, global influence, resource diversion from health to defense, healthcare in conflict settings

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Moving more for a healthy pregnancy

When Noelia M. Zork, M.D., was pregnant, she wanted to do everything she could to avoid having gestational diabetes — high blood sugar that typically develops between the second and third trimester. Diabetes runs in her family, and because her blood sugar levels were borderline high during her pregnancy, Zork, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and researcher at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, followed the advice she gives patients: Find ways to stay active and follow a heart-healthy diet. 

“If you can do small things, they add up,” she explained. This worked to offset her risks. In addition to eating well, she focused on simple activities she could do at home, like a pregnancy-focused yoga video a few times a week. After having her second child, she walked to the park with her family and they danced to free children’s Zumba videos. “It’s about batching in activity while you’re entertaining the child,” she said. “Anything that gets the heart rate going counts.”

Studies confirm it. For years regular physical activity has been linked to healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for new moms and babies. Several studies, including those from the NIH-supported nuMoM2b and nuMoM2b Heart Health Study network, have found that people who can stay physically active throughout pregnancy not only have a reduced likelihood for developing gestational diabetes, but are more likely to have lower blood pressure during and after pregnancy. Other studies have found that regular physical activity supports a healthy body weight during and after pregnancy, while reducing symptoms of postpartum depression. 

It’s why researchers continue to study the positive effects of physical activity and how to help people move more throughout their lives, including during pregnancy.  

All the powerful perks

“Exercise helps you sleep better at night, lowers anxiety, and reduces blood pressure for up to 24 hours,” said Bethany Barone Gibbs, Ph.D., a nuMoM2b network researcher and principal investigator of the Gibbs Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Research Lab at West Virginia University. “This happens every time you exercise.”

The long-term benefits are just as important. Regular physical activity supports bone health, the brain, a normal body weight, metabolic and physical functions, and offsets risks that can lead to a heart attack, stroke, diabetes, certain forms of cancer, and dementia. 

This is why the Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults without underlying health complications get at least 150 minutes each week of moderate-intense physical activity, like brisk walking or easy cycling. The recommendations can also be met with 75 minutes of weekly vigorous exercise, like taking a fast-paced aerobics class. Adults should also incorporate at least two weekly strength-based sessions, which can include body-weight exercises, into their routine. 

The guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy are the same but encourage women who haven’t participated in vigorous activities to focus on moderate-intense activity . People who are pregnant should avoid exercising in extreme heat, contact sports that increase risks for falling, and doing exercises while lying on their spine after the first trimester. 

“Even committing to 10 minutes at a time, three days a week, is going to make a huge difference,” said Zork. For people new to exercise, she and others recommend a gradual increase in physical activity. Think of working up to 10 minutes of marching in place a few times each day. 

According to research from the nuMoM2b study, first-time moms who increased their physical activity throughout the first half of pregnancy were less likely to develop gestational diabetes compared to those who were the least active. Among the more than 10,000 study participants, 5.7% of those who did not participate in physical activity developed gestational diabetes. This dropped to 3.8% for those who gradually increased their activity levels and to 3.1% for the most active participants. 

“Taking steps to support heart-healthy living, such as by moving more and knowing numbers for a healthy heart, supports individual health and well-being and helps create a healthy environment for the baby to grow and develop,” said Jasmina Varagic, M.D., Ph.D., program director of the Vascular Biology and Hypertension Branch in the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at NHLBI. These outcomes — positive pregnancy experiences and optimal indicators of heart health — have also been linked to better health outcomes years later. 

A new research frontier

As investigators study the many benefits of physical activity, they are also conducting research to specify how to “sit less and move more” each day. 

Gibbs is studying these effects during and after pregnancy. Her research in this area started with a pilot study with 120 women during their pregnancy. She and researchers measured how many times participants stood, sat, and stepped each day. They also tracked moderate-intense activities and sedentary behavior, or time spent sitting, reclining, or lying down. At the end the study, 19 participants experienced at least one adverse pregnancy outcome, such as gestational diabetes, complications related to high blood pressure, or a preterm birth.

Among those who experienced complications, 16 fell into a “high-sitting” category, a pattern that included sitting or reclining for about 11 hours a day and getting around 5,000 daily steps. Those who sat for less than 9 hours a day logged about 7,000 steps and were largely protected from the same risks. The associations between pregnancy complications and “high-sitting/low steps” were also independent from moderate-intense activities. 

Gibbs and her colleague Kara M. Whitaker, Ph.D., M.P.H., at the University of Iowa are now studying these patterns among 500 women through an NHLBI-supported study called Pregnancy 24/7 . “Even if you are getting 30 minutes a day of physical activity — that’s only 3% of the time you are awake,” she said. “We want to understand what’s happening the rest of that time and how it relates to a healthy pregnancy.”

To study these patterns after pregnancy, Gibbs and other researchers are partnering with women in the nuMoM2b Heart Health Study to assess how daily movement overlaps with cardiovascular health. In the meantime, Gibbs encourages people, especially busy moms, to try to work physical activity into their day, however and whenever they can. 

“Women do a lot,” said Gibbs. “It doesn’t have to take a lot of time, but caring for yourself with physical activity is really important and can have so many benefits.” 

About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI):  NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit  www.nhlbi.nih.gov .

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MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)

• MDMA, also called Molly or Ecstasy, is a lab-made (synthetic) drug that has effects similar to stimulants like methamphetamine.  Some researchers and organizations consider MDMA to be a psychedelic drug because it can also mildly alter visual and time perception.
• MDMA’s effects may include feeling more energetic and alert and having an increased sense of well-being, warmth, and openness toward others.
• However, MDMA can also cause a number of negative health effects. For example, while deaths from MDMA are rare, overdoses can potentially be life threatening—with symptoms including high blood pressure, faintness, panic attacks, and in severe cases, a loss of consciousness and seizures.

MDMA (Ecstasy) Abuse Research Report

Describes the science behind MDMA (ecstasy) abuse, including what it does to the brain, whether it is addictive, and the latest research regarding prevention and treatment of MDMA.

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FDA Encourages Research to Promote Diversity in the Tobacco Regulatory Science Workforce

April 5, 2024 

On April 1, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued a Notice of Information encouraging the submission of research supplements to promote diversity in the tobacco regulatory science workforce. The opportunity is available to Program Directors/Principal Investigators who are conducting tobacco regulatory research as part of the Tobacco Regulatory Science Program (TRSP) , an interagency partnership between the NIH and the FDA Center for Tobacco Products (CTP). 

The funds are available for administrative supplements to enhance the tobacco regulatory research workforce by recruiting, mentoring, and supporting high school, undergraduate and graduate/clinical students, post baccalaureate and post-Masters individuals, postdoctoral researchers (including health professionals), and eligible investigators from diverse backgrounds—including those from groups that have been shown to be underrepresented in health-related research. This opportunity is also available to support Program Directors/Principal Investigators of research grants who are or become disabled and need additional support to accommodate their disability to continue to work on the research project. 

Applicants are encouraged to submit research supplements to promote diversity in tobacco regulatory science through “PA-23-189: Research Supplements to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research (Admin Supp - Clinical Trial Not Allowed).”  

Applications are due May 15, 2024. However, Institute and Center specific application due dates prior to May 15, 2024, supersede this date. 

Awards under this supplement will be administered by NIH using funds made available through FDA CTP and the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. Research results from these awards are expected to generate findings and data that are directly relevant in informing the FDA’s regulation of the manufacture, distribution, and marketing of tobacco products. 

In December 2023, CTP released  a new 5-year strategic plan , which outlines the center’s programmatic and workforce initiatives for the next five years, including health equity and diversity as one of four cross-cutting themes. The dedication of funds to promote diversity in the tobacco regulatory science workforce reflects the Center’s ongoing commitment to advancing health equity as part of the new strategic plan.

Learn About the Funding Opportunity