My research program uses population data and advanced (pharmaco)epidemiologic and statistical methods to investigate variation in quality, use and outcomes of care across the Australian health system. I have two primary areas of focus: cardio-metabolic health (particularly medicine use), and how the structural features of the health system impact quality of care and health outcomes. These areas often intersect, given the complex nature of cardiovascular health and multimorbidity, and there are significant opportunities to improve care pathways and the use of guideline recommended therapy – both improving health outcomes and reducing the burden on the health system.

Examples of key grant funded research projects include: (i) disparities in uptake of novel diabetes medicines (e.g. ozempic) for treatment of cardiovascular, kidney and metabolic health; (ii) complex treatment patterns (e.g. polypharmacy, high risk prescribing) among people with multimorbid cardiovascular conditions; (iii) disparities in hospital care between public and privately funded hospital inpatients (e.g. receipt of innovative procedures, length of stay and low value care); and (iv) long-term patient outcomes following a variety of surgical procedures.

I have a track record of research which engages with health policy. My prior research in the National Data Linkage Demonstration Project was the first research in Australia to use whole-of-population linked hospital, pharmaceutical dispensing and Medicare claims data - finding significant evidence-practice gaps in the use of critical cardiovascular medicines following hospital admission for a myocardial infarction. My PhD research exploring sources of variation in 'potentially preventable hospitalisations' reshaped the way we conceptualise this national health performance indicator. I have drafted interpretive guidelines for it's national reporting, and have been on multiple advisory groups and Committees including the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare ("Australia's Health 2020), the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care ("Australian Atlas of Healthcare Variation") and the National Health Performance Authority.