The main objective of this NIH-funded work (R56) is to investigate the effect of expanding access to pediatric hospice care (concurrent care) to reduce rural/urban disparities in child and adolescent health outcomes (symptom management, care continuity, and costs). We employed geographic information systems (GIS) and comparative effectiveness data analytic methods, in which we controlled for patient/family, hospice provider, and community characteristics. A unique aspect of our study is the use of mapping techniques to visualize rural/urban disparities in access to pediatric hospice care in Appalachia. By examining these data, we will be able to assess impact of concurrent care on rural/urban disparities and health outcomes in a significantly underserved populations.

As the health of children and adolescents continues to decline in the Appalachian region, this information is of major importance to clinicians, policy-makers, and families.

A unique aspect of our study is the use of mapping techniques to visualize rural/urban disparities in access to pediatric hospice care in Appalachia.

 

Grant Awards

R56 Grant Award:
National Institutes of Health National Institute of Nursing Research R56NR019444

Project Title:
Effectiveness of end-of-life strategies to improve pediatric health outcomes and reduce disparities in rural Appalachia

Re-entry Grant Award:
National Institutes of Health National Institute of Nursing Research R01NR017848 (Administrative supplement to Parent R01 award)

Project Title:
The effectiveness of concurrent hospice care to improve pediatric and family outcomes at end of life