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Our Work

The AAMC Research and Action Institute takes deep dives into the most pressing policy issues facing patients in health care today. Find our latest work, as well as an archive of our previous papers, opinion pieces, and other resources below.

Data Snapshots

In the wake of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, the AAMC Research and Action Institute analyzed current US medical school graduate applicant data by states with abortion bans, those with gestational limits, and those without gestational limits or abortion bans.

AAMC Research and Action Institute
Training Location Preferences of U.S. Medical School Graduates Post DOBBS V. JACKSON WOMEN’S HEALTH ORGANIZATION Decision

An examination of how new restrictions on women’s health care may impact where US medical school graduates apply for residency training.

  • April 13, 2023

Value-Based Care

In a new issue brief, the AAMC Research and Action Institute assesses which large-scale VBC models in place at hospitals and clinics have worked so far, what gaps exist in the current portfolio, and what opportunities exist to build on VBC’s promise of better care at a lower cost.

Issue Brief
What's the Value in Value-Based Care?

Some VBC models have achieved net savings, while others have resulted in relatively modest net spending. Are we measuring “value” appropriately?

  • March 30, 2023

Mental Health Care

The AAMC Research and Action Institute defines the barriers to accessing mental health care in the United States and highlight the key focus areas policymakers should prioritize to improve access, coverage, and affordability of care.

Issue Brief
Exploring Barriers to Mental Health Care in the U.S.

The AAMC Research and Action Institute looks at the mental health crisis—including workforce shortages, lack of insurance parity, and how to fix it.

  • October 10, 2022

Health Care Costs

In a series of brief papers, the AAMC Research and Action Institute takes a novel look at health care costs in the context of the complex financing and delivery system in the United States and outlines the tensions and trade-offs involved in crafting relevant health policy.

Viewpoints
The Inflation Reduction Act will cut health care costs for some patients. But we need to do more

The U.S. spends $4 trillion on health care each year, yet many still lack access to good, affordable care, according to the AAMC Research and Action Institute.

  • August 17, 2022
Issue Brief
Health Care Costs: What’s the Problem?

What costs are too high, and can they be controlled through policy while improving access to care and the health of the population?

  • August 17, 2022
Issue Brief
Surprise! Why Medical Bills Are Still a Problem for U.S. Health Care

This brief defines the “cost problem” in health care and which public policies can achieve meaningful and realistic solutions.

  • August 17, 2022
Issue Brief
What Can We Learn From Comparisons of International Health Care Spending?

This brief outlines the key drivers in health care spending, the challenges related to decreasing spending, and the limits of international comparisons.

  • August 17, 2022

COVID-19 Pandemic

In July 2020, as the Research and Action Institute was being established, the AAMC issued a road map for a COVID-19 restart that identified nine evidence-based actions for addressing the pandemic now and two long-term efforts for improving overall health. Since then, the institute has developed several resources and opinion pieces:

Viewpoints
COVID-19 transparency: Where are the tests and when can we get them?

Home testing will play a critical role in managing future outbreaks. It’s time for the federal government to develop a national testing strategy.

  • January 25, 2022
As Vaccination Efforts Falter, the U.S. Must Get Serious About COVID-19 Testing and Reporting

In November 2021, the United States still lacked testing capacity and had limited ability to track results. The institute cautioned that without a clear strategy, COVID-19 containment would be more difficult.

America’s COVID Response is Still Badly Flawed. Here's How to Finally Get It Right

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States was positioned to better control and prevent outbreaks. But doing so would require stronger federal leadership and preparation. Subscription required.

AAMC Research and Action Institute
The Way Forward Starts Now: Lessons from COVID-19

A reflection on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, including recommendations for how the U.S. can be better prepared for the next pandemic.

  • September 6, 2021
  • PDF
The Way Forward on COVID-19
Consensus Guidance on Face Coverings

This consensus document describes how the latest evidence requires the public to remain active participants in the effort to decrease the spread of COVID-19.

The Way Forward on COVID-19
AAMC Recommendations for COVID-19 Testing: The Current State and The Way Forward

The AAMC recommends that a national pandemic response should seek sustained and regular testing targets for effective diagnosis and screening.

Testing
AAMC Guide to COVID-19 Tests and Testing

The AAMC’s Research and Action Institute addresses the most common questions about the different types of tests for COVID-19 and when each type should be used.

Keep up with the Institute

The institute invites health care decision-makers, influencers, and members of the public to subscribe to future communications and updates from Executive Director Atul Grover, MD, PhD. It also welcomes feedback on issues of interest that the Research and Action Institute may address.

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