Pediatrics Research
Pediatric Research Studies
UCR Pediatric research enhances child and family health and optimizing care delivery in the Inland Empire community. The projects focus on three critical areas:
Community Perspectives and Chronic Disease: Understanding how adults and parents view medical research, innovative treatments, and the challenges of living with or raising a child with chronic conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or autism).
Youth Resilience and Mental Health: Investigating the impact of social and environmental factors (Social Determinants of Health) on youth development and mental well-being.
Healthcare System Navigation: Capturing mothers' personal experiences and challenges when accessing and navigating the pediatric healthcare system to guide future improvements in care accessibility and family-centered design.
Bridging the Gap: Chronic Disease and Research Awareness Study
PI: Dr. Elizabeth Jacobs
This study explores how adults living with chronic conditions—and parents of children with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, or autism—view medical research, treatments like stem cell therapy, and access to innovative care. Participants share their experiences in a one-time focus group to help improve how future research meets community needs in the Inland Empire.
Social Determinants of Health and Youth Resilience Project
PI: Dr. Caroline McGowan
This project investigates how social and environmental factors influence children’s development and mental health. Families from UCR Health pediatric clinics in Riverside and La Quinta, including parents, children, and adolescents, are invited to complete a confidential survey to help researchers better understand how experiences shape resilience and well-being in youth.
Understanding Parents’ Healthcare Journeys Study
PI: Dr. Elizabeth Jacobs
This study focuses on mothers of elementary-aged children who have received care at UCR Health La Quinta within the past year. Through a one-time interview, researchers aim to learn more about families’ experiences navigating the healthcare system to identify ways to make pediatric care more responsive, accessible, and family-centered.
Bridging the Gap: Chronic Disease and Research Awareness Study
PI: Dr. Elizabeth Jacobs
Have you or your child been affected by a chronic condition such as asthma, diabetes, or eczema? This study invites adults and parents to share their experiences and perspectives on healthcare, new treatments, and research participation. Your voice can help make medical research more inclusive and responsive to real community needs. Participants take part in a relaxed, one-time focus group (in-person or virtual) and receive a $50 gift card as a thank-you.
Social Determinants of Health and Youth Resilience Project
PI: Dr. Caroline McGowan
Our children’s environment shapes how they grow, learn, and thrive. This project seeks to understand how family, community, and social experiences influence child development and mental health. Families receiving care at UCR Health pediatric clinics in Riverside or La Quinta are invited to complete a short, confidential survey. By sharing your story, you’ll help researchers identify ways to build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities for all children.
Understanding Parents’ Healthcare Journeys Study
PI: Dr. Elizabeth Jacobs
Every parent’s experience navigating the healthcare system matters. This study focuses on mothers of elementary school–aged children who have received care at UCR Health La Quinta within the past year. Through a one-time interview, participants will share their stories about what works well—and what can be improved—when accessing care for their families. Your insights will guide future improvements in pediatric care and family-centered healthcare design.