Resources

The HDRC works to provide its members with the resources they need. If you require more assistance than this page can offer please visit the forms section and fill out the Member Assistance Form.

Frequently asked questions about the HDRC

What is the HDRC?

The Health Disparities Research Collaborative (HDRC) provides a platform for the support and collaboration of Henry Ford Health System (HFHS) investigators working to understand racial and ethnic health disparities.

Why do we need the HDRC?

At HFHS, disparities research encompasses the study of cultural, biological, behavioral, or medical treatment reasons contributing to persistent differences in health indicators, thereby revealing the means for their elimination.

Who can join the HDRC?

We welcome HDRC applicants within and outside of the Henry Ford Health System. HDRC investigator members have a doctoral level degree, are involved in laboratory, population sciences, or clinical areas of health disparities research; currently have external, peer-reviewed research funding, and a demonstrated track record in this area.

HDRC membership is also open to new investigators with a doctoral level degree, involved in laboratory, population sciences, or clinical areas of health disparities research; and actively seeking external, peer-reviewed research funding. HFHS associates of investigator/new investigator members that actively participate in, and contribute to, the research goals of the Henry Ford Health System Health Disparities Collaborative are also eligible for membership.

What are the benefits of HDRC membership?

Priority status for use of HDRC core resources (e.g. grant development consultation, project start-up, biostatistical support, etc.) Support for approved HDRC supplemental and new investigator funding. Information regarding national and local health disparities-related funding sources, meetings, seminars, conferences and workshops waived registration fees for HDRC sponsored events.

What are the responsibilities of HDRC membership?

HDRC members are asked to:

• Help develop and promote the HDRC program agenda
• Partner with other HDRC members on grant proposals and papers
• Attend scheduled HDRC meetings and events
• Use the HDRC affiliation in appropriate forums

How do I join the HDRC?

Prospective members must submit a copy of their curriculum vitae, along with their application to the HDRC Administrative Coordinator, (Cheryl Miree, One Ford Place 3C, Detroit 48202).

All applications should include a description of active and pending grant support where applicable (this is required when applying for HDRC supplemental or new investigator funding). All applications are reviewed quarterly and the applicant will be informed of the decision thereafter.

What are HDRC 'Sponsored Events' and how do I find out about them?

The HDRC sponsors several events each year including the Annual Reception held each January, invited guest speakers, workshops, and lectures. 

How do I know if my research falls under the category of health disparities research?

Research falls under health disparities if: Investigations of disease risk, by race. Intent to make these comparisons should be stated as an analysis goal, a specific aim, or an exploratory aim, and the study should be powered for these comparisons. Investigation of ways to reduce morbidity/mortality among racial/ethnic groups who are disproportionately affected by a particular disease or condition. Investigations designed to explain the reason(s) for the disproportionate burden of disease in one racial or ethnic group. Methodological studies relevant to health disparities research, including (but not limited to) measurement of socio-economic status or treatment of indicators of socio-economic status in analysis, use of ancestry markers, measures of discrimination, research on patient-physician communication, etc.

What if I have questions not listed here?

Please submit your questions to HDRC staff via email. Be sure to include your name, department, and phone number before submitting your question.