Research
Objectives
Our group is involved in numerous, diverse projects all thematically related to understanding and providing services for disadvantaged populations, including those who are homeless and/or have severe mental illnesses. Much of our work is focused on the veteran population and can be characterized as health services research. We have access to large databases and nationally representative samples. We always welcome collaboration and look for students and fellows interested in working with us. Feel free to contact us.
Projects
Evaluation of a Community-Based Paramedicine Program for Acute Service Users
We are conducting a research study to evaluate a community paramedicine program serving San Antonio. Molina Healthcare of Texas’s Mobile Integrative Health (MIH) program has partnered with the Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council (STRAC) to deploy a community paramedicine program. The program involves local paramedic teams visiting and assisting local high-risk individuals who are facing challenges of social determinants of health who are covered by Molina Healthcare of Texas and helping to navigate these Molina members to needed resources.
PROJECT HALT
What is Project HALT? Ending homelessness requires efforts to prevent individuals from ever entering homelessness (i.e., prevention or diversion). PROJECT HALT is a clinical trial to investigate the science of homelessness diversion including when and for whom it works best and how we can continue to strengthen diversion efforts (e.g., tailoring it to sexual and gender-minoritized communities). Our research team is reaching out to select individuals as they exit emergency departments to screen their housing status. Individuals at risk of losing housing will be randomized to receive homeless diversion or standard care. Both groups will be followed over six months and health and housing outcomes will be assessed. Project HALT is a collaboration between the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health, Harris Health System, and the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County.
Grassroots Health
GRASSROOTS HEALTH is an innovative program in Houston and San Antonio that aims to eliminate barriers to education, testing, and treatment for hepatitis B and C among individuals at risk of homelessness. GRASSROOTS HEALTH has provided services to hundreds of individuals at risk of homelessness in Houston with existing partners at New Hope Housing and Healthcare for the Homeless Houston. This grant will allow researchers to expand the program to veterans and the South Texas region
Recovery-Oriented Money Management (ROMM) program
Veterans will participate in financial education groups, individual financial coaching, and computerized budget assistance tailored to their needs and experiences. The goal of the grant is to provide financial counseling to 100 veterans experiencing or at risk for homelessness, increase their financial literacy and money management skills, and improve their well-being and quality of life. The grant will also go toward the creation of a program manual and training on military cultural competency and money management
