RMATRIX II: Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Health Disparities Research in the College of Health Sciences and Social Welfare (CHSSW)

摘要

While Hawai‘i enjoys the status of being the “healthiest state” in the nation, there are still many people who experience disparate health. RMATRIX-II (2014–2019), the RCMI Multidisciplinary And Translational Research Infrastructure eXpansion program provides an infrastructure for research that improves health and reduces health disparities particularly among Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and Filipinos. The strategic goals of the program are to: (1) foster clinical and translational disparities research, (2) build institutional and community synergy, and (3) advance career development and mentoring of health disparities investigators, with priority in the areas of nutrition and metabolic health; growth, development and reproductive health; and aging and chronic disease prevention/management. Due to growing evidence that effective health care is delivered by coordinated multidisciplinary teams RMATRIX-II supports investigators across the CHSSW and throughout the University of Hawai#x02018;i system who engage in multidisciplinary research with special attention to community-based partnerships. Support is provided in core functions including Professional Development, Collaborations and Partnerships, Community-Based Research, Biostatistics and Health Sciences Data Analytics, Regulatory Knowledge and Support, and Clinical Research Resources and Facilities, with an Evaluation component to provide overall assessment. In order to optimize services, RMATRIX II works with other large NIH funded projects to leverage resources. A special feature of the RMATRIX-II is its pilot project program which supports investigators through mentorship, educational forums, linkages to other resources, and competitively, with financial support. In creating a strong foundation for multidisciplinary health disparities research, RMATRIX II is striving to create a healthier place for the diverse peoples of Hawai‘i.