The dissertation defense will be open and held virtually.
This event has passed. The written dissertation or abstract is available by clicking the link below.
The PhD in Translational Health Sciences Program is proud to announce the Dissertation Defense of:
PhD Candidate: Emelia Grant, MS, CGC
Determining the Etiology of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL): An in Explanatory Mixed Methods Study Exploring Obstetrician Gynecologist Clinical Provider Practice Behaviors and Factors Contributing to Inappropriate Laboratory Test Utilization
Dissertation Committee Chair: Lisa Schwartz, EdD, MS, CGC
September 5, 2024, 3-5pm EST
More than 50% of patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) are left without a clinical explanation for their losses. However, current research suggests that up to 90% of these individuals could receive a clinical explanation through evidence-based laboratory testing. Inequities in access to genetic testing further complicate the diagnostic landscape of RPL. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), this explanatory mixed methods study examined RPL laboratory testing evaluations through a retrospective chart review, followed by a qualitative exploration of Obstetrics-Gynecology Clinical Providers (OBCP) practice behaviors as they relate to RPL laboratory testing evaluations via semi-structured interviews with 15 OGCPs, all of whom were physicians. The findings from this research highlights the fragmentation of care, often resulting in inappropriate utilization of RPL evaluation testing, for this vulnerable population and the potential for improved care coordination between providers and the clinical laboratory.