Divya Shankar, MD

Divya Shankar, MD

Boston University

Research Project:
How Can We Improve Equity of Care for Racial and Ethnic Minority Patients with Pulmonary Fibrosis?

Grant Awarded:

  • Catalyst Award

Research Topics:

  • clinical research
  • disparities
  • epidemiology
  • implementation science

Research Diseases:

  • interstitial lung disease
  • pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a group of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) that cause scarring of the lungs, deteriorating lung function, and death. Racial and ethnic minority individuals with PF experience health deterioration and death at younger ages than non-minority counterparts. It is possible that delays and disparities in care along the pathway from the first signs of disease to diagnosis to treatment contribute to the racial and ethnic disparities that lead to worse outcomes. We will map the steps in the full pathway of PF care to assess care points where disparities increase. We will also assess provider perspectives along the spectrum of care (primary care to specialist care) in order to understand challenges to care progression and points of care where providers would be open to interventions addressing inequities in PF care. The results of this project will inform a future intervention to promote equity of care for racial and ethnic minority individuals with PF.

Page last updated: October 7, 2024

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