Shawna M. Green, Ph.D.

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SUMMARY

Shawna M. Green, Ph.D., conducts health services research related to critical healthcare delivery issues with a focus on mitigating disparities. As a researcher, certified health educator and nurse, she conducts mixed methods research and evaluations to improve people's experiences and health outcomes. Dr. Green's goal is to advance the research on and treatment of all individuals by reducing barriers to effective care.

Focus areas

• Dementia and Alzheimer's research participation studies. Black and African Americans have increased rates of Alzheimer's disease. Despite this disproportionate burden, they remain underrepresented in dementia research. This disparity not only exacerbates existing racial inequities but also hampers the efficacy of potential therapies. Dr. Green studies the views on participation in clinical trials and brain donation among the local Black population. This perspective allows for a better understanding of people's points of view and creates new recruitment methods that resonate with the Black population. The goal of this work is to influence policy and discussion regarding methods to improve participation and equitable results among racial and ethnic minorities and the aging population.
• Transplantation outcomes. In order to make organ transplantation practices more equitable, there is a need to understand age and race-related disparities in kidney and pancreas-kidney transplantation. There is a need to understand the implications of transplanting marginal-quality kidneys to vulnerable recipients, particularly older adults. Dr. Green focuses on the comparative analysis of social determinants of health and the related transplantation outcomes. Study results shape organ allocation decisions and practices, ultimately leading to a more equitable foundation for transplantation.
• Evaluation and behavioral health. Dr. Green's training and work in translational research for vulnerable populations has allowed her to assess and evaluate community-based programs. These programs include PTSD treatment, the integration of a digital mental health intervention and the identification of county needs. She utilizes mixed methods approaches to explore diverse perspectives and to better understand the efficacy and impact of interventions. The results of these projects have improved organizational practices, paving the way for more-effective interventions.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Green's research advances and improves care by giving individuals a voice and enabling direct engagement with the medical research community. Her work also focuses on the fast-growing aging population and emerging adults. The aging population and emerging adults comprise some of the most vulnerable members of society and may otherwise not be included in research.

Dr. Green bridges critical gaps in understanding and addressing the healthcare needs of these groups. The insight gained from her research makes strides toward equity and improves the quality of life for these people. Her work ultimately improves individuals' safety and health outcomes by pinpointing areas for improvement and identifying gaps in care. The translational nature of these findings ensures that organizational practices are addressed, leading to accelerated improvements in healthcare delivery that directly benefit people.

Professional highlights

• University of South Florida:
  • Student Honorary Award for Research and Practice, College of Public Health, 2016.
  • Maternal and Child Health Leadership Training Award, the Harrell Center for Domestic Violence, 2014.
  • Student Research Award, College of Public Health, 2014.
  • Graduate Fellowship Award, 2013.
• The Ohio State University:
  • AmeriCorps Education Award, 2008.
  • D. Milton Rosner Scholarship Fund for Academic Excellence in Social Work, 2007.
  • Matthew Carl Behling Memorial Scholarship, School of Social Work, 2007.
  • Phyllis Weygandt Auerbach '51 Memorial Award, School of Social Work, 2006.