The Social Policy Institute at Washington University in St. Louis (SPI) conducts human-centered research to support healthy individuals and thriving communities. Our research focuses on improving the effectiveness of healthcare delivery, influencing positive health outcomes, and decreasing healthcare costs, especially for the nation’s Medicaid population. Researchers also evaluate the healthcare impacts of COVID-19, particularly provider vaccine hesitancy and unmet needs of the Medicaid population during the height of the pandemic.
In addition, SPI believes thriving individuals need equal and plentiful access to food in order to lead healthy lives. In partnership with regional community organizations, food insecurity researchers evaluate best practices to increase food access to mothers and children.
Through research on healthcare delivery and food insecurity, the institute works to create health equity and help individuals lead flourishing and healthier lives.
Our Health Initiatives
Response to COVID-19
Research Agenda
These studies explore how COVID-19, the impacts on social needs and care, and how responses to the virus impacted these.