About HEAL-R

Health disparities and inequities continue to pose significant challenges in health care, disproportionately affecting marginalized and minoritized communities. HEAL-R seeks to address these disparities by creating an environment that values health equity research, supports investigators dedicated to advancing health equity, fosters innovative care delivery through community partnerships, and secures sustainable funding to drive impactful initiatives.

Mission

The mission of HEAL-R is to bring equity research to health care delivery, addressing critical health disparities that threaten marginalized and minoritized patients and the communities to which they belong.


Vision

HEAL-R’s vision is a society where health equity is realized, and all individuals have equal opportunities for optimal health and well-being. 

We do this through our four pillars.

four pillars of different colors have icons representing funidng, expansion, support and innovation

  • Funding data-informed and patient-engaged health equity focused research. We provide funding for data-informed and patient-engaged research that uncovers the root causes of health disparities and identifies evidence-based solutions. By financially supporting the deployment of rigorous analysis and utilization of data, patient-reported outcomes, and community engagement methodologies, we seek to drive research initiatives that lead to equitable healthcare access, experiences, and outcomes for all.

  • Supporting and nurturing health equity investigators. HEAL-R is dedicated to empowering health equity investigators in their pursuit of groundbreaking research. We aim to comprehensively support investigators at all stages of their career by providing professional development and educational opportunities, mentorship, and grant proposal development services. We have also established infrastructure to provide research project support such as access to data resources, biostatistical support, and research project management.

  • Innovating health care delivery to eliminate health disparities. HEAL-R implements innovative strategies in health care delivery that directly address social and structural inequities. Our focus lies in developing novel approaches that identify and reduce disparities in patient access, experience, and outcomes of care. By collaborating with IU Health’s Office of Health Equity Research and Engagement (HERE) and community organizations, we aim to implement sustainable and scalable solutions that create a more equitable healthcare landscape, ensuring that every patient receives the care they need, regardless of their background or circumstances.

  • Expanding our impact through strategic external funding opportunities. We actively seek external grants and funding opportunities that align with HEAL-R’s mission and the research priorities of our health system partner, IU Health. Through strategic grant acquisition, we aim to diversify our funding portfolio and secure resources that sustain and expand our health equity scholarship endeavors.

Committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

At HEAL-R, we prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion as fundamental principles guiding our work. We recognize that diverse perspectives and experiences are invaluable in addressing complex health challenges. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that respects and celebrates differences, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive and contribute to our mission of advancing health equity.