MENTAL HEALTH POLICY
I conduct rigorous econometric analysis to inform the design of a health system that promotes population mental health.
Mental health system transformation
In the U.S. and elsewhere, the locus of mental health care has been switched from institutional settings to the community. I have quantified the intra and inter-system impacts of this systemic change on healthcare utilization, mental health outcomes, and the criminal justice system. I also quantified an inter-system return on investment in public mental health for the jail system. Most recently, I successfully led a project that investigated the boarding of psychiatric patients in emergency departments.
Intersection of mental health and other health domains
IÂ explore the intersection of mental health and other health domains. I quantified the effect of chronic medical conditions on mental health care utilization, and also discovered a beneficial effect of mental health treatment on health expenditures. My colleagues and I found an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease among Medicaid enrollees with co-morbid severe mental illness and substance abuse. We also discovered the impact of the expansion of community health centers (CHCs) on the reduction of racial disparities in pediatric psychiatric emergency care.
Pressing behavioral health issues
My research has examined several pressing behavioral health issues with substantial social costs. I have led a study that surveyed pain patients and providers, and linked and analyzed medical claims data to evaluate an alternative pain management program. I have also participated in analysis of a diabetes intervention program for older Latino adults and their caregivers. My work quantified the effect of weight perception on smoking behavior among U.S. adolescents. I also demonstrated that community social capital promotes weight-loss efforts and reduces obesity risk. I am currently analyzing the impacts of maternal opioid use and antidepressants during pregnancy.