FSM
Mission
To conduct multidisciplinary aging-related research that is both clinically relevant and policy significant on the ways to organize and deliver accessible, high quality, efficient health services that will achieve desirable health outcomes. Our objectives are to:
  • conduct scientifically rigorous and timely research to improve our knowledge in health services for the aging population and to improve the standards of practice and inform policy initiatives.
  • develop innovative research methodologies, both theoretical and applied, that will advance the field of aging-related health services research.
  • collaborate with researchers and practitioners who have expertise in the medical, biological, and/or psychosocial sciences at academic institutions (including Northwestern University) and with community-based organizations, government agencies, and private companies.
  • disseminate research findings and educate various local, state, and national communities on health policy initiatives related to the aging population.
Research Themes
  • End-of-life and palliative care for the older population
  • Caregiving research
  • Quality of care and patient safety in health services
  • Safety in the home and the community
  • Quality and safety of medication use
  • Long-term care and residential services


Denys Lau, PhD, Assistant Professor and Director, Health Services Evaluation & Policy Research Section
Mayor Daley's Well-Being Task Force
The Well-Being Task Force, led by the Chicago Department on Aging Commissioner Joyce Gallagher, was established to provide services for and advocate on behalf of older citizens of Chicago who live alone. This is achieved by partnering with agencies and community organizations to assist in coordinating and providing services to isolated older people. Denys Lau, PhD, is a member of the task force and meets monthly with leaders and representatives from local community organizations, agencies, and the Chicago Police and Fire Departments to discuss a range of issues that affect Chicago's older citizens.
Medicare Part D Community Lectures
The Buehler Center on Aging, Health & Society is conducting community lectures about the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit. Denys Lau, PhD, and Advisory Board Co-Chair Janice L. Feinberg, PharmD, JD, present information on enrollment, scope, and expected benefits of the new program. See Community Outreach for more information.
The Health Services Research and Policy Seminar Series, Thursdays, 12-1pm, Wieboldt Hall 421
Video simulcast at the Hines VA Hospital and the ENH Center for Outcomes, Research and Education (CORE). Speakers address a variety of topics and methodologies in health services research, aging, quality of care, and health policy. Contact Sharon Bledsoe to join the mailing list.