Our Approach

Guiding Principles and Values

Our work is built on a foundation of values that reflect our mission and culture. Our dedication to social justice drives us to address health inequities and reduce suffering, both in our communities and through the ways we do research. Within the Institute for Health & Aging (IHA), we champion equity at home, ensuring respect, fairness and shared responsibilities among all team members. Finally, we prioritize sustainability and balance, fostering resilience for our institution and wellness for our people. These values permeate our research, shaping our commitment to positive social impact.

IHAs focus areas are interconnected and built on it's three foundational pillars.

Foundational Pillars of Our Approach

IHA is driven by a commitment to equity, collaboration and the pursuit of meaningful change. It is organized into seven focus areas: Women's Health, Aging and Lifespan Health, Health and the Arts, Equity Sciences, Health Economics and Health Policy, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and Health Workforce. 

IHA's approach is built upon three foundational pillars: Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health, Solutions Designed for People and Communities, and Purpose-Built Methods.

Three Foundational Pillars

Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health

IHA recognizes that health is shaped by a complex interplay of social, economic and environmental factors. Our work focuses on identifying and addressing these broader determinants to advance equitable health outcomes. Through research on healthcare access and the economic impacts of chronic illness, we aim to reduce disparities and foster health equity for all communities. 

Solutions Designed for People and Communities

IHA integrates Human-Centered design and community-based participatory research to ensure that our work is rooted in lived experiences and real-world needs. By collaborating with local organizations, policymakers and community members, we co-create culturally responsive study designs and interventions and together build locally informed solutions. By fostering trust and inclusivity, our participatory approach ensures that the voices of the communities we serve are integral to driving meaningful, sustainable change. 

Purpose-Built Methods

IHA employs cutting-edge technical approaches to advance research and deliver impactful solutions. Our expertise spans advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, economic modeling, implementation science and health systems research. By leveraging diverse methodologies, our work informs policies, improves healthcare delivery and drives innovation across fields such as aging, life course health, reproductive health and health systems strengthening.