Patient Centricity In Research & Healthcare

I am completing LUNGevity Foundation’s Citizen Scientist Program, a research training program designed to prepare people affected by lung cancer to contribute meaningfully to patient-centered research.

The program has expanded my understanding of comparative effectiveness research, how to develop research questions and study design, evidence evaluation, patient-centered outcomes, and the role patients can play as research partners.

As an ALK-positive lung cancer patient and lung cancer advocate, I bring lived experience to this work alongside more than 25 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, technology and translating complex information for different audiences.

My Research Focus

I am especially interested in patient journeys, patient education, patient experience, patient-centered communication, digital and AI-enabled support, and the use of technology in healthcare.

Citizen Scientist Capstone

My Citizen Scientist capstone focuses on the experience of people newly diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the support available to them during the first 90 days after diagnosis.

The project explores three approaches to supporting patients during this period—patient navigation, structured patient education and digital support—and examines the evidence around patient-centered outcomes such as emotional distress, decision-making and patient knowledge.

The project also considers where gaps remain in the evidence and opportunities for future patient-centered research.

Capstone presentation coming soon.

AI-Assisted Evidence Searching

I developed a practical resource guide to help beginner Citizen Scientists and researchers use AI-supported tools responsibly when searching for research evidence using PubMed and Google Scholar—from research question to evidence.

The guide covers developing a PICO question, building a search strategy, understanding different types of AI and research tools, verifying sources, and recognizing the limitations of AI-generated information.

The resource has been reviewed by LUNGevity Foundation and is planned for publication on the Foundation’s website.

Guide coming soon.

Collaboration

I am interested in patient-centered collaborations across research organizations, healthcare education and communications, AI and digital health companies.