Family Medicine Research

Dr. Oshman points to project poster

Preparing for the Future

Our department ranks among the top 10 in terms of NIH funding. Projects range from examining disparities in health care to using advanced technology for diabetes management, and more.

About our Research

The University of Michigan Medical School's Department of Family Medicine research is a multidisciplinary effort among our scientists and clinicians (some of whom are both) who examine health care issues that affect a person throughout their lifetime. Our faculty conduct work in nearly every area of health, from maternal and reproductive health to the prevention of cancer and integrative oncology, to behavioral health, and the health of the primary care workforce on a national and global scale.

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The department's research is also focused on addressing a person’s socioeconomic factors. Our researchers ask, ‘How does the physical environment affect someone’s health? Do they lack transportation, the financial means to receive appropriate care, or do they have a disability, either physical and/or intellectual, that can prevent them from accessing equitable care?’ 

They also examine barriers inherent in the current established medical system that present certain race-based barriers to specific groups in gaining equal and effective access to care. Our researchers care about the health of the community, both locally and on a global scale, and they conduct work that contributes to overall well-being of patients and the community.

Featured News & Stories

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Health Lab

What’s the latest on 7-OH and kratom availability and addiction care?

The United States Drug Enforcement Agency proposed temporary rescheduling of 7-OH products could remove synthetic opioids from the market, leaving natural leaf kratom available amid a shortage of addiction treatment providers.
Brandie Bentley
Department News

Family Medicine researcher Brandie Bentley, PhD, MSW, receives national and internal funding to improve maternal health

Assistant Professor Brandie Bentley, Ph.D. of Family Medicine receives national and internal funding focused on improving perinatal care and outcomes for women with disabilities.
Square MYHealth logo showing cartoon versions of young people
Department News

MYHealth team publishes findings about positive effects of MYHealth youth research program

MYHealth program researchers publish findings about positive effects of the virtual youth research program, noting that those who participate feel a sense of belonging and encouragement to pursue STEM careers.
Bob and Debbie Merion, wearing orange parkas, stand on the Antarctic ice holding a U-M flag between them.
Philanthropy News

Mindful gift supports patient well-being

Bob and Debbie Merion are helping share mindfulness-based stress reduction with patients in Michigan Medicine's Integrative Family Medicine Program.
Mahmoudi, Elham
Department News

Dr. Elham Mahmoudi authors paper selected for honor by Gerontological Society of America

Associate Professor Elham Mahmoudi and her fellow authors have published a paper that was selected by the Gerontological Association of America as a paper of the year in 2026.
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Department News

Professor Diane Harper selected as the Michigan Family Physician of the Year for 2026

Professor Diane M. Harper, MD, MPH, MS, has received several honors, including Physician of the Year for 2026 by the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians, and has been honored as Kansas University School of Medicine with its Distinguished Alumni Award.